(hĕn′ōk-shān′līn)
[Pronunciation]
[Eduard H. Henoch, Ger. pediatrician, 1820–1910; Johann Lukas Schönlein, Ger. physician, 1793–1864]
A form of small vessel vasculitis of unknown cause that affects children, esp. between the ages of 3 and 5, more often than adults.
It is marked by a purpuric rash on the buttocks and legs, and, in some patients, abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding, polyarticular joint disease, and renal involvement (e.g., glomerulonephritis). The illness usually lasts about 2 weeks before resolving spontaneously. In some instances (more commonly in adults than in children) renal failure can complicate the illness.
SYN: anaphylactoid purpura

Figure: HENOCH-SCHÖNLEIN PURPURA





TREATMENT
Joint symptoms respond to rest and administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Corticosteroid drugs, such as prednisone, are used to treat patients with severe gastrointestinal or renal involvement. Hemodialysis is used to support patients who develop chronic renal failure.