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Henoch-Schönlein Nephritis in Children

Renal involvement of IgA vasculitis: haematuria, proteinuria and risk of chronic kidney disease.

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Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Henoch-Schönlein Nephritis in Children?

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common small-vessel IgA vasculitis in childhood, characterised by skin, joint, gastrointestinal and renal involvement.

Renal involvement occurs in 30-50% of cases, ranging from mild haematuria to nephritic-nephrotic syndrome.

It generally develops 4-6 weeks after upper respiratory infection; if proteinuria is heavy and renal failure develops, immunosuppressive therapy is required.

Symptoms

Microscopic or macroscopic haematuria (red urine)
Proteinuria and oedema (face, leg)
Hypertension (in long-standing cases)
Palpable purpura (especially on legs and buttocks)
Joint pain and swelling (knee, ankle)
Severe abdominal pain and gastrointestinal bleeding
Decreased urine output and chronic renal failure

Risk Factors

Recent upper respiratory infection (streptococcus)
Age 4-7 years and male sex
Family history of IgA nephropathy
Genetic predisposition (HLA-B35)
Drug allergy and food allergy
Insect bite or vaccine history
Cold weather and seasonal effects

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Bloody urine, proteinuria, oedema and hypertension require an urgent paediatric nephrologist
  • Renal biopsy may be needed in patients with proteinuria >50 mg/kg/day
  • Long-term blood pressure and proteinuria follow-up is mandatory
  • Pregnancy planning requires renal function evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
Symptomatic treatment (rest, analgesic)
02
Hypertension management (ACE inhibitor, ARB)
03
Steroid therapy (oral prednisolone 1-2 mg/kg, in severe nephritis)
04
Cyclophosphamide or mycophenolate (refractory cases)
05
Plasmapheresis (rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis)
06
Long-term follow-up: annual urinalysis, blood pressure, GFR

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.