Overview
Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) affects the blood vessels and causes a spotty rash. It's not usually serious, but can sometimes lead to kidney problems. It's more common in children, but adults can get it too.
Check if it's Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP)
The main symptom of Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a rash of raised red or purple spots. The spots look like small bruises or blood spots.
The rash usually appears on the legs, bottom, tummy, chest or back.
There may be lots of spots or just a few.
You may also have pain or swelling in your joits, such as your knees and ankles. You may also have tummy pain.
Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 now if:
- you or your child have a rash that does not fade when a glass is pressed against it but you do not feel unwell
This could be Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP).
You can call 111 or get hlep from 111 online.
Call 999 or go to A&E if:
- a rash doesn't fade when a glass is pressed against it and you feel very unwell - for example, it's painful to look at bright lights or you have a stiff neck
This could be something serious like meningitis.
Important
How to do the glass test
- Press the side of a clear glass firmly against the skin.
- Check a few times to see if you can still see the spots through the glass.
If you have darker skin, check paler areas like the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
Treatments for Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP)
There's no treatment for Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP). It usually gets better in a few weeks and you can usually just rest at home until you feel better.
HSP cannot spread to others, so:
- your child can return to school or nursery when they feel well enough
- you can go back to work as soon as you feel up to it
Treatment to relieve your symptoms
Paracetamol can help ease any pain.
Do not take ibuprofen without speaking to your doctor because it could harm your kidneys.
Regular check-ups for kidney problems
You'll have regular check-ups for 6 to 12 months to check how well your kidneys are working.
You'll usually be asked to provide a sample of pee and have your blood pressure checked at each appointment. This may be done at home, at your GP surgery, or in hospital.
Treatment in hospital
You may need to go into hospital if HSP affects your kidneys.
In hospital, you may be given strong medicines like steroids to help ease your symptoms.
Risks of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP)
Most people with Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) make a full recovery. Any kidney problems usually get better without treatment.
But sometimes HSP can be severe and last several months.
There's also a small chance the kidneys could be permanently damaged (chronic kidney disease). This is why it's important to have regular check-ups.
Important
You can get HSP more than once. Get medical advice quickly if the symptoms come back.