Frequency of renal manifestations in patients of Henoch-Schonlein purpura

Abstract

Background Henoch-Schonlein Purpura (HSP) is a multisystem disorder that has cutaneous, musculoskeletal, gut and kidney manifestations. It is the most common childhood systemic vasculitis and is less frequent in adults. It carries significant morbidity and mortality especially in context of renal outcomes. The purpose of this survey was to determine the frequency of renal manifestations in patients of HSP presenting to a tertiary care center in Pakistan.   Methods The study was conducted in King Edward Medical University (KEMU)/ Mayo Hospital Lahore. 32 patients with clinical HSP were included and detailed history and examination was done followed by laboratory investigations. Patients were followed up for 6 months. All data was recorded in a predesigned proforma.   Results 18 male and 14 female patients in the ratio of 1.3:1 with mean age 26.9+14 years were enrolled. Palpable purpura, abdominal pain and joint pain occurred in 100%, 50% and 41% cases respectively. Anemia (53%) and thrombocytosis (37%) were the most frequent abnormalities on laboratory workup followed by proteinuria (28%). Blood renal parameters were deranged in only 15% and improved on follow-up. More than 90% cases recovered completely without any residual damage.   Conclusion Urinary and blood renal parameters that were deranged among the small percentage of our patients improved over time. HSP in our cohort had very good clinical and renal prognosis.