"I was diagnosed with Henoch-Schonlein purpura when I was 18, so about six years ago now. It was in the autumn months, which is when it is more prevalent. I initially suffered from a viral infection. Later that week, I developed pains in my abdominal area, and then came down with the meningitis-like rash. I was in the hospital for three weeks. All the symptoms described, I have had. However, I am or was one of the few who got renal failure as a result. It is believed to be chronic and not end stage. However, I am on continuing medication as a result. The thing I have found as a result of my diagnosis, is that I can't eat spicy food or red meat. My metabolism has slowed to a point that I am more prone to putting on weight than I used to be. This is one of those diseases that puzzle even the most genius of specialists. Bar the diet, I still get to live a relatively normal life."
Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a particular form of blood vessel inflammation called vasculitis.Henoch-Schonlein purpura frequently follows an infection of the throat or breathing passages, but it can be induced by certain medications.Henoch-Schonlein purpura causes skin rash, pain in the abdomen, and joint inflammation (arthritis).The treatment of Henoch-Schonlein purpura is directed toward the most significant area of involvement.The prognosis for patients with Henoch-Schonlein purpura is generally excellent.
Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a form of blood vessel inflammation or vasculitis. There are many different conditions that feature vasculitis. Each of the forms of vasculitis tends to involve certain characteristic blood vessels. HSP affects the small vessels called capillaries in the skin and frequently the kidneys. HSP results in a purplish skin rash (most prominent over the buttocks and behind the lower extremities) associated with joint inflammation (arthritis) and sometimes cramping pain in the abdomen. Henoch-Schonlein purpura is also referred to as anaphylactoid purpura.
HSP occurs most often in the spring season and frequently follows an infection of the throat or breathing passages. HSP seems to represent an unusual reaction of the body's immune system that is in response to this infection (either bacteria or virus). Aside from infection, drugs can also trigger the condition. HSP occurs most commonly in children, but people of all age groups can be affected, including adults.
Reviewed by Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD on 10/3/2012
