What is Allergic Purpura?

Jul 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have noticed clusters of purple patches on my body, and they are somewhat itchy. When I went for an examination, the doctor diagnosed it as Henoch-Schönlein purpura (allergic purpura). I would like to know, what exactly is allergic purpura?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a common vascular allergic disease. The exact cause is still unknown but may involve infections, immune dysfunction, genetic factors, and others. This disease primarily affects children aged 2 to 6 years. Its occurrence is related to seasonal changes, mainly occurring in autumn, winter, and spring, and rarely in summer. Based on the affected areas, the disease can be classified into types: simple cutaneous type, abdominal type, arthritic type, renal type, and mixed type of Henoch-Schönlein purpura. The main clinical symptoms of Henoch-Schönlein purpura include skin purpura, joint symptoms, gastrointestinal symptoms, and kidney damage. Some male patients may develop inflammation of the scrotum and testicles. In a few patients, the nervous system may be affected, presenting symptoms such as headache, convulsions, and epilepsy. This disease has a genetic predisposition. Treatment of Henoch-Schönlein purpura mainly involves removing causative factors, controlling acute symptoms, and actively preventing and treating complications. Specific drug treatments include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, anti-allergy and antihistamine medications, and anticoagulants. Most patients recover spontaneously; however, for patients with severe illness or persistent and recurrent symptoms, active symptomatic treatment is required.