User:Mr. Ibrahem/Henoch–Schönlein purpura

Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP), also known as IgA vasculitis, is inflammation of the small blood vessels of the skin, kidneys, joints, and gastrointestinal tract. Less commonly the brain or lungs may be involved. Symptoms include purpura (purple bruises) or petechiae (small red dots) in the skin, and potentially joint pain and abdominal pain. The rash primarily affects the legs. Complications may include kidney failure and intussusception.

HSP is often preceded by an infection, such as a throat infection or gastroenteritis. The underlying mechanism involves build up of immune complexes containing the antibody immunoglobulin A (IgA) in small blood vessels, resulting in inflammation. The diagnosis is based on symptoms without evidence of low platelets.

Treatment is generally with supportive care, unless the kidneys are involves. Paracetamol (acetaminophen) and occasionally NSAIDs may be used for the pain. If the kidneys are involved treatment may include corticosteroids, plasma exchange, immunosuppressants, and ACE inhibitors. Most people get better within 4 weeks though there is a risk of reoccurrence. In adults, complications are more frequent.

The condition is rare. Children are most commonly affected and in this population it occurring in about 15 per 100,000 per year. It is named after the German physicians Johann Schonlein and Eduard Henoch though was described earlier by William Heberden in the early 1800s.