What is the term used to describe a tiny red spot on the skin, most often referenced in its plural form?

The term that describes tiny red spots on the skin, often seen in its plural form, is "petechia." These spots are small, pinpoint-sized hemorrhages that occur when small blood vessels, or capillaries, break and leak blood into the skin. They can appear as tiny red, purple, or brown dots and are typically not raised. Petechiae can indicate a variety of medical conditions, including some that affect clotting or blood platelet levels, which makes the understanding of this term clinically relevant for healthcare professionals.

In contrast, "ecchymosis" refers to larger bruises or areas of bleeding under the skin that can occur from trauma. "Purpura" describes larger purple discolorations that can result from bleeding under the skin, similar to petechiae but usually more extensive. Lastly, a "vesicle" is a blister-like formation filled with fluid, which is a different type of skin lesion entirely. Thus, "petechia" specifically pinpoints the tiny red spots on the skin that are being referenced in this context.