Causes, incidence, and risk factors of Henoch-Schonlein

Henoch-Schonlein purpura is a disease that involves purple spots on the skin, joint pain, gastrointestinal problems, and glomerulonephritis (a type of kidney disorder).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Henoch-Schonlein is caused by an abnormal response of the immune system. It is unclear why this occurs.
The syndrome is usually seen in children, but it may affect people of any age. It is more common in boys than in girls. Many people with Henoch-Schonlein purpura had an upper respiratory illness in the weeks before.
Symptoms:


Abdominal pain

Joint pain

Purple spots on the skin (purpura), usually over the buttocks, lower legs, and elbows

Bloody stools

Hives or angioedema

Nausea

Diarrhea

Painful menstruation

Vomiting

Signs and tests

The doctor will examine your body and look at your skin. The physical exam will reveal skin sores (lesions) and joint tenderness.

Tests may include:

Skin biopsy

Urinalysis

Treatment

There is no specific treatment. Most cases go away on their own without treatment. If symptoms persist, your doctor may recommend therapy with corticosteroids such as prednisone.