Description
A disease in which small blood vessels become inflamed (vasculitis) which causes purple spots on the skin (purpura). Other manifestations include: joint pain, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and inflammation of the kidneys (glomerulonephritis). It is more common in children than adults. The cause of the disease is unknown. It is characterized by an abnormal immune response. A serious intestinal disorder called intussusception can be associated with this disorder.
Symptoms
Abdominal pain, black or bloody stools, vomiting. diarrhea, joint pain, purple spots on the skin (purpura).
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to determine the severity of the disease will be performed, often including blood and urine tests, abdominal CT scan and, in some cases a skin and/or kidney biopsy..
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA)
Other Specific Tests: Skin biopsy
Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to determine the severity of the disease will be performed, often including blood and urine tests, abdominal CT scan and, in some cases a skin and/or kidney biopsy..
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Urinalysis (UA)
Other Specific Tests: Skin biopsy
Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology
Treatment
Supportive treatment is provided, including intravenous fluids and, if necessary, blood transfusions. Occasionally the following treatments are administered: steroids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), dapsone, cyclosporine, azathioprine, intravenous immunoglobulin, and plasmapheresis.