HENOCH-SCHÖNLEIN

 

SYNDROME

 

The most widely recognized subgroup of idiopathic CNV is the Henoch-Schönlein syndrome, formerly known as anaphylactoid purpura. It occurs predominantly in children, with a peak incidence at 5 to 6 years of age, but it may occur in adults. A history of a recent upper respiratory tract infection, especially streptococcal, is obtained in up to 75 percent of individuals; however, Henoch-Schönlein syndrome has been associated with other infections. Sites of involvement include the skin, synovia, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Symptoms may be colicky abdominal pain, melena, arthralgia, and hematuria. Long-term morbidity from progressive renal disease occurs in 5 percent of patients. The spread of purpura to the upper parts of the trunk is a predictive factor for renal involvement.