CLINICAL PROFILE OF HENOCH-SCHONLEIN PURPURA PATIENTS AT CHILDREN HOSPITAL FAISALABAD

Abstract

Background: Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP), also known as IgA Vasculitis, is the most common small-vessel vasculitis in children, characterized by IgA deposition in affected tissues. Despite its global prevalence, limited data is available on its clinical profile in the Pakistani pediatric population.

Objective: To determine the frequency of clinical features of HSP in children presenting to Children Hospital Faisalabad.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over one year using non-probability consecutive sampling. A total of 215 children aged 1 month to 18 years diagnosed with HSP as per EULAR/PRINTO/PRES criteria were included. Data were collected through clinical examination, lab investigations, and imaging, then analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results: Among 215 patients, palpable purpura was observed in 100%, joint involvement in 75%, GI symptoms in 65%, renal involvement in 45%, leukocytosis in 46%, thrombocytosis in 34.8%, and elevated CRP in 43% of patients. The majority of cases were reported during winter and autumn.

Conclusion: HSP shows varied clinical presentations with purpura, joint, GI, and renal involvement being common. Early recognition and management can reduce complications. Local epidemiological data can improve understanding and aid in establishing standardized diagnostic protocols in Pakistan.