In most cases, petechiae are caused by a benign and harmless condition, but in some cases they may be a sign of an underlying disorder that requires urgent attention. Although petechiae can occur at any age, they are more commonly seen in older adults and children.

Can petechiae be normal?

Often, petechiae are nothing to worry about. Still, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor if you're not sure where these spots came from. Some conditions that cause petechiae are very serious. Petechiae are more common in kids.

Can petechiae be benign?

This distribution of petechiae is not always benign; 25% of patients with fever and petechiae confined to the upper torso had bacterial infection in one study. Petechiae can form distal to placement of a tourniquet and have no clinical significance without other findings.