Henoch–Schönlein (anaphylactoid) purpura

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

This is a palpable purpura due to small vessel vasculitis.

Question 2

Clinical features

Answer 2

All ages, mainly in children

Usu. follows URTI inc. strep throat

Rash mainly on buttocks and legs

Can occur on hands, arms and trunk

Arthritis: mainly ankles and knees

Colicky abdominal pain (vasculitis of GIT)

Haematuria (reflects nephritis and requires follow-up kidney function)

Question 3

Prognosis

Answer 3

is generally excellent.

No specific therapy is available

but corticosteroids may be helpful for abdominal pain

• if intussusception excluded