Henoch Schonlein Purpura

What is it?

Henoch – Schonlein Purpura, or ‘HSP’ is a type of reaction involving tiny blood vessels called capillaries. Henoch and Schonlein are the names of the people who identified the illness, and Purpura means a red/purple skin rash.

Symptoms

• Red/purple skin rash (Purpura) – usually on feet, legs, buttocks, which doesn’t blanch (‘go away’) when you press on it. The rash may also be itchy.
• Painful, often swollen joints, around the ankles, knees, elbows, wrists.
• Sharp abdominal pain.
• Vomiting
• Occasional swelling, especially of the scrotum in boys.
• Kidney inflammation – this may cause your child’s urine to contain some blood (haematuria), and protein (proteinuria). Serious kidney damage is very uncommon from HSP.

How is HSP managed? What tests will be done?

• Blood will be taken for laboratory testing.
• Urine will be checked weekly until clear – you will be able to do this at home – a nurse will show you how.
• Painkillers will be prescribed for your child.
• Your child’s blood pressure will be checked regularly
• Your child may or may not need to be admitted to hospital, depending on how bad their symptoms are.
• Your child needs to rest until their symptoms have passed.

How long can HSP last?

HSP usually lasts about four weeks. Blood pressure and urine will be checked regularly during this time. Your child may also need bloods taken a few times. HSP can re-occur one or more times after being free of the disease for several weeks. However, a full recovery is made in almost all cases.
If your child’s symptoms change and they become more unwell seek advice from your GP and you may then be referred back to Ward 5.