Henoch-Schonlein Purpura

Henoch-Schönlein purpura is an inflammation of the small blood vessels that can affect the skin, the joints, the intestine and the kidneys. It occurs most frequently in childhood, although it can also occur in adults.

Manifestations that are described:

• Reddish or purple spots on the legs and buttocks
• Pain or swelling in the joints
• Abdominal discomfort

When is care advisable? When these spots appear together with joint or abdominal pain, a timely evaluation is important, especially because of the possible kidney involvement.

Specialists involved: depending on the case, the rheumatologist, the internist or the nephrologist take part; in children, the pediatric nephrologist looks after kidney function. Discussing the symptoms with one of these professionals allows for informed and reassuring follow-up.