Neonatal purpura fulminans is a rare, life-threatening blood clotting disorder that affects newborns, characterized by widespread blood clots and severe skin necrosis. It is caused by severe deficiency or absence of Protein C, a natural anticoagulant protein that prevents excessive blood clotting. The Protein C Activity test is the most important test for diagnosis because it directly measures the functional levels of this critical clotting regulator.
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Neonatal purpura fulminans is caused by severe deficiency or complete absence of Protein C, a natural anticoagulant protein that regulates blood clotting. This condition typically occurs in newborns who inherit two defective copies of the Protein C gene (homozygous Protein C deficiency), one from each parent. Without adequate Protein C, the blood loses its ability to prevent excessive clotting, leading to widespread thrombosis throughout small blood vessels. This uncontrolled clotting blocks blood flow to the skin and other tissues, causing the characteristic large purple patches and tissue death that appear within hours to days after birth.
The Protein C Activity test is the most important test for neonatal purpura fulminans because it directly measures how well Protein C functions in preventing blood clots. In affected newborns, this test reveals very low or completely undetectable levels of Protein C activity, confirming the diagnosis. The test measures the functional capacity of Protein C rather than just its quantity, which is critical because the condition results from the protein being absent or non-functional. Early testing is essential because prompt diagnosis allows doctors to immediately begin life-saving treatment with Protein C replacement therapy, which can prevent further tissue damage and potentially save the infant's life.
You should get tested immediately if your newborn develops large purple or dark patches on the skin within the first few days of life, especially if these areas feel firm or show signs of tissue death. Testing is also urgent if your baby has a family history of early blood clotting disorders or if siblings experienced similar symptoms. Any newborn showing signs of widespread bruising, skin discoloration that resembles severe bruising, or skin lesions that rapidly progress should receive emergency evaluation and Protein C Activity testing. Because this condition can be fatal within hours without treatment, any suspicious skin changes in a newborn warrant immediate medical attention and testing.
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Your testosterone levels are slightly below the optimal range. While this is not necessarily cause for concern, it may contribute to occasional fatigue, reduced motivation, or lower muscle mass over time.
Recommended actions
Increase resistance or strength training
Prioritize 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night, try to reduce stress
Include more zinc- and magnesium-rich foods (like shellfish, beef, pumpkin seeds, spinach)
Consider retesting in 3–6 months
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