Henoch-Schonlein Purpura
This is also known as Anaphylactoid Purpura, Allergic Purpura and Henoch Schonlein Syndrome. This is a triad of:
1. Skin
2: joint
3. Abdominal manifestations
Clinically, 20% to 30 % of cases has nephritis. This condition is common among the 3-10 years age group with history of upper respiratory tract infection. There is proteinuria and hematuria and may exacerbate during attacks of abdominal pain, joint pains and purpura. The etiology of HSP is still uncertain.
Other conditions that may manifest like Henoch Schonlein Purpura with arthralgia/ arthritis, abdominal pain and purpura are:
– idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
– rheumatoid arthritis
– rheumatic fever
– acute abdomen
– and Systemic lupus erythematosus.
So it is very important to get a good history and thorough examination to rule out these conditions prior to the diagnosis of HSP.
Since this Henoch Schonlein Purpura (HSP) is nonprogressive and clinicopathologically mild in the majority of cases, there is no need of specific treatment. Though, in children with increase abdominal distress and arthralgias, some medications are given to alleviate the symptoms. Sometimes, the physician is faced with the challenging task of explaining to the parents the natural history and course of the disease and the need of constant surveillance of the affected child.