Henoch-Schonlein purpura: An update

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP), the commonest childhood vasculitis, is characterised by non-thrombocytopaenic palpable purpura, arthritis or arthralgias, gastrointestinal and renal involvement. The peak incidence is between the ages of 4 years and 8 years with a male preponderance. Though the diagnosis is usually clinical, a tissue biopsy revealing leucocytoclastic vasculitis is helpful when the presentation is atypical. Renal involvement in the form of an immune complex glomerulonephritis is the most serious long-term complication. The aetiopathogenesis, classification, clinical features, relevant Indian data, and a stepwise management approach with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents per the renal histology are discussed.