Henoch-Schonlein purpura
Definition
Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a disease that involves purple spots on the skin, joint pain, gastrointestinal problems, and glomerulonephritis (a type of kidney disorder).
Alternative Names
Anaphylactoid purpura; Vascular purpura
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Henoch-Schonlein is caused by an abnormal response of the immune system. It is unclear why this occurs.
The syndrome is usually seen in children, but it may affect people of any age. It is more common in boys than in girls. Many people with Henoch-Schonlein purpura had an upper respiratory illness in the weeks before.
Symptoms
- Abdominal pain
- Joint pain
- Purple spots on the skin (purpura), usually over the buttocks, lower legs, and elbows
- Bloody stools
- Hives or angioedema
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Painful menstruation
- Vomiting
Signs and tests
The doctor will examine your body and look at your skin. The physical exam will reveal skin sores (lesions) and joint tenderness.
Tests may include:
Treatment
There is no specific treatment. Most cases go away on their own without treatment. If symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend therapy with corticosteroids such as prednisone.
Expectations (prognosis)
The disease usually gets better on its own without treatment.
Complications
- Bleeding inside the body
- Kidney problems (in rare cases)
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
- You develop symptoms of Henoch-Schonlein purpura, particularly if they last for more than a few days
- You have low urine output after an episode of Henoch-Schonlein purpura
References
Miller ML, Pachman LM. Vasculitis syndromes. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 166.
Review Date:5/31/2009
Reviewed By:Mark James Borigini, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
The Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency) and this website do not claim the information on, or referred to by, this site is error free. This site may include links to websites of other government agencies or private groups. Our Agency and this website do not control such sites and are not responsible for their content. Reference to or links to any other group, product, service, or information does not mean our Agency or this website approves of that group, product, service, or information.
Additionally, while health information provided through this website may be a valuable resource for the public, it is not designed to offer medical advice. Talk with your doctor about medical care questions you may have.
Health
Outcome Data
No data available for this condition/procedure.
E-mail this page to a friend