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Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a form of vasculitis, or inflammation of the blood vessels. The inflammation typically affects smaller blood vessels, resulting in a severe skin rash or bruise-like appearance on the skin. Other symptoms of HSP might include arthritis (inflammation of the joints) or nephritis (inflammation of blood vessels in the kidney). Inflammation can also occur in other organs of the body.

HSP typically affects kids between the ages of 2 and 10, although older children may also suffer from it. HSP is the most common form of vasculitis in children. In many cases, HSP will resolve by itself without treatment.

Causes and Symptoms

The cause of HSP is unknown. Symptoms of HSP vary in each child, but common ones include:

  • Purpura, a hemorrhage (bleeding) into the skin causing a rash or bruise
  • Bumps or swelling below the skin
  • Painful joints
  • Abdominal pain
  • Kidney inflammation (nephritis)
  • Brain dysfunction (encephalitis)
  • Bleeding in the lungs

Diagnosis

Your pediatric rheumatologist can help diagnose HSP via several evaluations. One of the first and crucial things to check is blood pressure. If your child has high blood pressure, it could indicate inflammation in the kidney. Other testing may include:

  • Bloodwork
  • Urinalysis to check for certain proteins
  • Ultrasound to assess internal bleeding or any tissue damage
  • Biopsy of kidney tissue, if necessary

Treatment 

Many children may experience only one bout of HSP during their lifetime, and symptoms often go away without treatment. For others, symptoms may last longer and into adulthood. Effective treatments include anti-inflammatory medications, close monitoring of blood pressure, proper diet and staying hydrated. Our team will visit with you and your child about an effective treatment plan specific to his or her unique needs.