Henoch-Schonlein purpura

Henoch-Schonlein purpura on the lower legs

Henoch-Schonlein Purpura: This disorder usually presents with red to purple bumps on the legs, often accompanied by aching in the joints and fever. This condition follows an infection and usually resolves without treatment. Skin lesions most commonly occur below the knee but may also be seen on the thigh, buttocks, and rarely on the arms.

Also known as: Anaphylactoid purpura and Vascular 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).

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

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.

See also:

  • Disease

    Glomerulonephritis

    Kidney anatomy

    Glomerulonephritis is a type of in which the part of your kidneys that helps filter waste and fluids from the blood is damaged.

  • Special Topic

    Immune response

    Immune system structures

    The immune response is how your body recognizes and defends itself against bacteria, viruses, and substances that appear foreign and harmful.

  • Special Topic

    Renal

    Kidney anatomy

    The term “renal” refers to the kidney. For example, renal failure means kidney failure. Related topics:

  • Disease

    Allergic vasculitis

    Vasculitis on the palm

    Allergic vasculitis is an extreme reaction to a drug, infection, or foreign substance that leads to inflammation and damage to blood vessels of the skin.

Review date:
May 31, 2009
Reviewed by:
Mark James Borigini, MD, Rheumatologist in the Washington, DC Metro area. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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