Capillaritis, also known as the pigmented purpuric dermatoses (PPD) or benign pigmented purpura, refers to a collection of benign cutaneous conditions characterized by the appearance of cayenne pepper-like petechiae, purpura, and golden-brown pigmentation on the legs and less commonly on the trunk and upper extremities.

Several distinct clinical entities have been described:

• Schamberg disease: the most common manifestation of PPD
• Purpura annularis telangiectodes (Majocchi disease)
• Eczematid-like purpura of Doucas and Kapetanakis
• Pigmented purpuric lichenoid dermatosis of Gougerot and Blum
• Lichen aureus
• Linear pigmented purpura
• Granulomatous pigmented purpura

Development or worsening of pre-existing capillaritis has been associated with venous hypertension, increased capillary fragility, gravity, exercise, and focal infections.

Capillaritis is typically asymptomatic but may be pruritic. It is usually a chronic condition with intermittent exacerbations and remissions. There is no geographic or hereditary population predilection. Men appear to be affected more commonly than women.