Henoch-Schönlein purpura

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is an inflammatory disorder characterized by a generalized vasculitis involving the small vessels of the skin, GI tract, kidneys, joints, and, rarely, the lungs and CNS. It is the most common vasculitis in children.

Pathophysiology

It is thought to be multifactorial with genetic, environmental, and antigenic components. 75% of patients report antecedent upper-respiratory, pharyngeal, or GI infections  Multiple bacterial and viral infectious agents  drug ingestions and vaccinations. thought to be an immunoglobulin A (IgA)–mediated autoimmune phenomenon.

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