A Case Study: Henoch-Schonlein Purpura in a Geriatric Patient with Gastrointestinal Involvement

Abstract

IgA-mediated immune vasculitis known as Henoch-Schonlein purpura affects the small blood vessels in the joints, kidneys, GI tract, skin, and, less frequently, the brain and lungs. The present case report describes a 62-year-old female patient with Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP). HSP is a type of vasculitis that affects small vessels and is characterized by purpura, arthritis, abdominal pain, and kidney involvement. In this case, the patient presented with a rash with red lesions on the upper and lower limbs, crusted lesions on both lower limbs, and acute onset abdominal pain with hematochezia. Endoscopy revealed diffuse ulcerations in the stomach, duodenum, and right colon(fig.1). Biopsies revealed a leukocytoclastic vasculitis in the skin (fig2) and gastrointestinal tract. The patient had a history of hypertension and smoking, and laboratory investigations revealed leucocytosis, anaemia, and electrolyte imbalances. The diagnosis of HSP was made based on the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and biopsy results. The patient was treated with a combination of steroids, antibiotics, and supportive care, which led to significant improvement of symptoms and laboratory findings. Steroid therapy was given according to guidelines for the treatment of HSP, and tapering the steroid therapy helped to improve gastrointestinal symptoms. The case report highlights the importance of careful monitoring and appropriate treatment of HSP in geriatric patients, as well as the potential benefits of immunosuppressant therapy.