Endoscopic Findings of Children with Henoch-Schonlein Purpura

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study was performed to analyze the endoscopic findings in Henoch-Schonlein purpura patients, and to compare the differences in endoscopic findings according to age and gastrointestinal symptoms. METHODS: We examined children with Henoch-Schonlein purpura aged 3 to 15 years between September 1996 and October 2002. The total number studied was 65, consisting of 41 boys and 24 girls. Endoscopy was performed and the results were analysed. RESULTS: Among 65 cases, 12 cases of duodenitis, nine cases of gastritis and duodenitis, six cases of duodenal erosion, five cases of gastritis, five cases of duodenal ulcer, two cases of gastric ulcer and one case of colonic erosion were noted. Endoscopic abnormality was found in 38 of 53 who had gastrointestinal symptoms, and in two of 12 who didn't have gastrointestinal symptoms. CONCLUSION: Most of the gastrointestinal symptoms in Henoch-Schonlein purpura patients were relieved without complication. But in some cases severe symptoms such as hematemesis, melena, and abdominal pain localized to epigastric area were developed when diagnosis was delayed. Prompt endoscopy will be helpful for diagnosis and therapy of Henoch-Schonlein purpura with gastrointestinal involvement.