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CD-ROM Today 1996 January
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01554.txt
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1994-01-17
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$Unique_ID{BRK01554}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What is Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura?}
$Subject{bruise rash Henoch-Schoenlein purpura Ill Defined Symptoms symptoms
Rare Diseases stomach streptococcal virus infection viral infections colicky
joint tenderness fever kidney children blood vessel vessels artery arteries
vein veins wet skin sore sores buttock buttocks knee knees ankle ankles
anaphylactoid Schoenlein-Henoch Henoch Schoenlein}
$Volume{N-4}
$Log{}
Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
What is Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura?
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QUESTION: Our grandson has a virus called Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura. His
doctor says it is rare. Can you tell us anything about this, and how it
should be treated. He has a rash and complains of pain in his stomach.
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ANSWER: This disease was first described by the two physicians whose name it
bears during the latter half of the 1800's, but to this day scientists are
not sure of its cause. No virus has been discovered as its cause, and
although many patients have a streptococcal infection just before the illness
is diagnosed, no cause and effect relationship has been established. It most
probably is a type of allergic or immune system ailment. The rash (purpura)
is usually the first sign of the illness, and colicky abdominal pain and
tenderness is common. There is often joint tenderness, and a fever is usually
present. In some cases the kidney is also affected. It is most common in
children aged 4 to 5 years, and is seen in boys three times more frequently
than girls. Much of the treatment is just supportive therapy, particularly in
mild cases, and includes bed rest and lots of fluids. In more severe
circumstances a course of corticosteroid (cortisone-like) medication may be
used. The good news is that in most cases the patients recover fully, but it
is wise to continue medical supervision for some time to guard against late
developing problems.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.