Relation between Renal and Scrotal Involvememt in Henoch-Sch nlein Purpura

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Although Henoch-Sch nlein purpura(HSP) has been described in detail, there is a paucity of information describing scrotal involvement and risk factors for renal involvement. This study was performed to evaluate the incidence of scrotal involvement and the relationship between renal and nonrenal involvement, including scrotal involvement. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 164 male children who were diagnosed as HSP at the Department of Pediatrics, Korea University Guro Hospital between January 1985 and December 1997. RESULTS: The incidence of scrotal involvement was 13.4%(22/164), and the mean age of the group of scrotal involvement was significantly younger(5.6+/-1.9 year) than that of the others (P<0.05). One patient was initially seen with scrotal involvement without any other symptoms, another patient, who presented with acute scrotal pain and swelling, turned out to have testicular torsion through laparotomy. Those with scrotal and gastrointestinal symptoms were more likely to be related to renal involvement at acute stage, but there was no statistical difference. Those with scrotal symptoms at acute stage developed nephritis more frequently after 6 months(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Those with scrotal symptoms at acute stage of HSP should be followed up for at least 6 months.