An Overview of IgA Vasculitis (Henoch- Schönlein Purpura) among Children

This chapter discusses about IgA Vasculitis (Henoch- Schönlein purpura) among children. The IgA vasculitis, a primary vasculitis that mostly affects small blood vessels, is diagnosed based on the presence of characteristic purpura or petechiae, abdominal discomfort, and renal abnormalities. The Ig A vasculitis is an acute multisystemic disease with signs and symptoms of purpura or petechiae, arthralgia or arthritis, and abdominal pain. Approximately 50% to 75% of children have gastrointestinal symptoms, such as colicky abdominal discomfort, vomiting, paralytic ileus, and GI bleeding, often occurring between 1-4 weeks. An incomplete presentation of IgAV, particularly if the skin symptoms are initially missing or there is an atypical presentation, the diagnosis becomes very difficult. Under these conditions, it is necessary to take into account alternative factors that may contribute to purpura, arthritis, abdominal discomfort, and renal illness. Disease recurrence can occur in patients with IgA Vasculitis even after renal transplantation. But despite recent advances in molecular understanding and healthcare facilities over the last few decades, the renal complication of IgA vasculitis remains a concern and the outcome has not changed over time.