Abstract
We report a case of a child with Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) who developed symptoms of hematuria, edema, proteinuria, and hypoalbuminemia 1 year before. Therefore, the initial diagnosis was acute post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (APSGN) and nephrotic syndrome. Proteinuria had improved, but hematuria had persisted and deteriorated upon the development of an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), which prompted a revised diagnosis of immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy. About 6 months later, the patient suddenly developed renal dysfunction and a palpable rash as well as arthralgia; thus, a second diagnosis of HSP nephritis (HSPN) was made. The first renal biopsy demonstrated mesangial hypercellularity, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and formation of one crescent-shaped glomerulus. The second renal biopsy following the onset of acute kidney injury showed more endocapillary hypercellularity along with slightly more tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. High-dose intravenous methylprednisolone improved the symptoms, particularly by reverting kidney function back to normal. HSP is an IgA-associated systemic disease that causes vasculitis. When in a mild state, HSP can spontaneously resolve; however, moderate to severe HSP usually requires systemic steroid administration. This case report suggests that HSPN may not present with the classic tetrad of nonthrombocytopenic palpable purpura, arthritis, or arthralgia, with gastrointestinal and renal involvement at the early onset of disease. In cases initially categorized as IgA nephropathy (IgAN), a close follow-up is required as the disease may evolve to HSPN over a short period of time, as in this case (within 6 months).
Original language | English |
---|---|
Title of host publication | Medical Case Reports |
Publisher | Nova Science Publishers, Inc. |
Pages | 437-447 |
Number of pages | 11 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781536168853 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781536168846 |
Publication status | Published - 14 Feb 2020 |
Keywords
- Case report
- Glomerulonephritis IgA
- Hematuria
- IgA
- Proteinuria
- Purpura
- Schoenlein-Henoch