Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a disease that involves purple spots on the skin, joint pain, gastrointestinal problems, and glomerulonephritis (a type of kidney disorder).
Henoch-Schonlein is caused by an abnormal response of the immune system. It is unclear why this occurs.
The syndrome is mostly seen in children, but it may affect people of any age. It is more common in boys than in girls. Many people who develop this disease had an upper respiratory infection in the weeks before.
There is no specific treatment. Most cases go away on their own. If symptoms do not go away, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroid medicine such as prednisone.
Expectations (prognosis)
The disease usually gets better on its own.
Complications
Bleeding inside the body
Kidney problems (in rare cases)
Calling your health care provider
Call 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
Ardoin SP, Fels E. Vasculitis syndromes. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 161.
Review Date:
4/20/2013
Reviewed By:
Gordon A. Starkebaum, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Bethanne Black, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.
