HENOCH-SCHONLEIN PURPURA - A MULTISYSTEM DISEASE ALSO SEEN IN ADULTS

Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a common vasculitic syndrome of childhood that is also seen in adults. It is characterized by the deposition of immune complexes, mainly IgA and C3, in various organ systems. Diagnos is is based on the presence of nonthrombocytopenic purpura, arthritis or arthralgia, abdominal pain that may be complicated by intussuscepti on, and glomerulonephritis. The disease is usually self-limited and la sts a few weeks but may recur. Recovery is complete in almost all pati ents, with the severity of renal involvement dictating any remaining s equelae. Corticosteroid therapy may provide acute symptomatic relief b ut apparently has no effect on the natural course of the disease.