What causes senile purpura?

AKA solar purpura: Is a skin condition characterized by large, sharply outlined, .5-2 in, dark purplish-red bruises appearing on the back of the forearms and less often the hands. It is most common in elderly white persons. It is caused by sun-induced damage to the connective tissue of the skin. No treatment is necessary as they typically fade over a period of up to 3 weeks. If concerned, consult doc. Good luck.

Senile Purpura: Easy skin bruising in older people.. As people age, their skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Hence, bruises (senile purpura) tend to form easily as the blood vessels in the skin are also more fragile. The bruises are initially dark purplish red and are most common on the forearms and backs of the hands in elderly people.

We don't know: The condition is referred to as idiopathic, which means that we haven't worked out the pathology, or mechanism of the problem. Purpura is bruising, senile purpura occurs in older people. It can be worsened by blood thinners such as aspirin, fish oil, Plavix or coumadin (warfarin).