Overview What is Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP)?
- HSP is a condition where small blood vessels become inflamed and leak, leading to a purplish rash (purpura), joint pain, abdominal symptoms, and sometimes kidney problems.
- It is a form of small vessel vasculitis and often affects the skin, joints, intestines, and kidneys.
Who is affected?
- Most common in children aged 3–15 years , but can occur in adults too.
- Boys are slightly more affected than girls.
Causes and Risk Factors Why does it happen?
- Often follows an upper respiratory tract infection .
- The immune system becomes overactive, attacking the body’s own small blood vessels.
Are certain people more at risk?
- Children (especially boys)
- Individuals with recent bacterial or viral infections
- Those with a family history of autoimmune conditions (rare)
Symptoms What are the common signs and symptoms?
- Purplish skin rash (especially on legs and buttocks)
- Joint pain and swelling (knees and ankles commonly)
- Tummy pain and vomiting
- Blood in urine or stool (indicating kidney or bowel involvement)
- Fatigue and low-grade fever
Diagnosis How is it diagnosed?
- Usually based on clinical signs (especially the rash).
- No single test confirms it, but investigations rule out other conditions.
What tests are commonly done?
- Urine test (to check for blood/protein)
- Blood tests (inflammation markers, kidney function)
- Skin or kidney biopsy (only if needed, especially in adults or severe cases)
Treatment Options What are the treatment choices?
- Most cases resolve on their own within a few weeks.
- Pain relief with paracetamol or NSAIDs for joint pain.
- Steroids may be used in severe cases (e.g. bad tummy pain, kidney issues).
- Hospital admission for complications like kidney involvement or gastrointestinal bleeding.
Are there any advanced or investigational therapies?
- None usually needed; treatment is supportive.
- In rare, severe, or relapsing cases, immunosuppressive therapy may be considered.
Dietary Advice What to eat and what to avoid:
- No specific diet, but during episodes of abdominal pain: Soft, bland foods (e.g. porridge, rice, toast) Avoid spicy, greasy, or fibrous foods temporarily
Nutrition tips to support recovery:
- Stay well-hydrated
- Ensure balanced meals to aid immune recovery
Common supplements and interactions:
- Supplements usually not required unless advised
- Check with your doctor before taking NSAIDs with steroids
Food safety or drug-food interactions:
- If on steroids , avoid high-sugar/salty foods to reduce side effects
Living with the Condition Managing daily activities:
- Rest during acute episodes
- Return to normal activities as symptoms improve
Exercise, lifestyle, and emotional well-being:
- Gentle activity helps with joint stiffness
- Reassurance: most children recover fully
- Adults may need closer follow-up for kidney issues
Tips for long-term monitoring and follow-up:
- Follow-up urine tests for several months to monitor kidney function
- Alert your doctor if blood appears in urine or if swelling develops
FAQs
1. Is Henoch-Schönlein Purpura contagious? No. It is not infectious, although it may follow a viral infection.
2. Will it come back again? Relapse occurs in about 1 in 3 people , usually within a few months. Relapses tend to be milder.
3. Can it cause long-term damage? Most recover fully, but a small percentage (especially adults) may develop chronic kidney problems .
4. Can adults get HSP? Yes, though less common. Adults may have more severe symptoms and need closer kidney monitoring.
5. What should I do if my child has a rash and tummy pain? Seek medical attention to rule out serious causes and confirm diagnosis.
Call to Action When to contact a doctor:
- New or worsening rash, especially with pain
- Blood in urine or stool
- Swelling in legs or face
- High fever or ongoing vomiting