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Gastrointestinal Involvement of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura in Children

IgA vasculitis with abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding and intussusception risk.

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.

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 Gastrointestinal Involvement of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura in Children?

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (IgA vasculitis) is the most common small-vessel vasculitis of childhood; it is characterised by palpable purpura, arthritis, abdominal pain and renal involvement.

Gastrointestinal involvement is observed in 50 to 75 percent of patients; abdominal pain (colic), gastrointestinal bleeding, intussusception, perforation and pancreatitis may develop.

Abdominal pain may precede skin findings and lead to misdiagnosis; ultrasound shows ileoileal intussusception (in 90 percent of HSP cases) and intestinal wall thickening.

Symptoms

Colicky abdominal pain (most common)
Bloody-mucoid stool, melena, haematemesis
Vomiting and intolerance to oral intake
Increase in abdominal pain (intussusception suspicion)
Palpable purpura on the lower extremities
Joint pain and swelling (knee, ankle)

Risk Factors

Age of three to ten years (peak)
Recent upper respiratory tract infection (Streptococcus, viral)
Drug use (penicillin, NSAIDs)
Vaccinations (occasional association)
Genetic predisposition
Autumn-winter season

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and vomiting require urgent evaluation
  • Tonsil-shaped abdomen and unresponsive abdominal pain raise suspicion of intussusception
  • Stool occult blood and ultrasound monitoring
  • Surgical consultation (in suspicion of perforation, intestinal obstruction)

Treatment Methods

01
Hospitalisation in severe abdominal pain and gastrointestinal bleeding
02
Intravenous corticosteroid (methylprednisolone 1 to 2 mg/kg/day)
03
Fluid-electrolyte replacement, analgesia
04
Air or hydrostatic reduction in intussusception (or surgical reduction)
05
Coagulation panel and stool occult blood monitoring
06
Renal involvement screening (urine analysis, blood pressure)

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.