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Henöch-Schönlein purpura is a small-vessel vasculitis characterized by an abnormal response of the immune system: immunoglobulin A (IgA), C3 and immune complex deposition in arterioles, capillaries and venules. The syndrome is mostly seen in children, but it may affect people of any age. It is more common in boys than in girls. The etiology of Henöch-Schönlein purpura is unknown. Multiple infectious agents as well as drugs, foods, and insect bites may trigger Henöch-Schönlein purpura. Susceptibility to HSP may have a genetic origin. Several reports suggest that defi ciency of complement 4 (C4) from deletion of C4 genes predisposes patients to IgA nephropathy and HSP nephritis.