Henoch-Schonlein Purpura
Also known as: HSP, IgA vasculitis, anaphylactoid purpura.
What is Henoch-Schonlein Purpura?
Henoch-Schonlein Purpura is a common vasculitis (inflammation and bleeding of blood vessels) of the small blood vessels of the skin, mucous membranes, joints, intestines and kidneys in children, between 2-6 years of age. It is slightly more common in boys and in Whites and Asians).
What causes Henoch-Schonlein Purpura?
Henoch-Schonlein Purpura is caused by an abnormal immune response, in which the body’s immune system attacks its own blood vessels. 30%-50% of children have had a previous upper respiratory tract infection (like a cold) before HSP; it may also be associated with other viral infections (like chickenpox, measles, hepatitis etc.), certain medications, foods, insect bites, or trauma.
There may be a genetic component as other family members in the same family may be affected.
What are the symptoms of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura?
Symptoms include:
- rash (leaking blood vessels leads to pinpoint red dots or bruises) on the buttocks, legs, and arms
- digestive tract symptoms (vomiting, abdominal pain and blood in the stool)
- arthritis (pain and swelling of joints)
- kidneys (blood in the urine, proteins in the urine and high blood pressure)
- and other system involvement (including brain and lungs).
What are Henoch-Schonlein Purpura care options?
There is no specific treatment for Henoch-Schonlein Purpura. Treatments are aimed at managing all the symptoms/problems, and include medications (and occasionally surgery) to treat joint pain and kidney and/or digestive problems.
Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP
This page was last updated on: April 07, 2022 03:13 PM