Recurrent Henoch-Schonlein purpura presenting as gingival petechiae and mandibular pain

Abstract

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP), or anaphylactoid purpura, is a syndrome of small vessel vasculitis in children characterized by nonthrombocytopenic purpura in a characteristic distribution, arthritis with often severe arthralgia, and cramping abdominal pain. 1 The clinical course is variable, but is usually limited to a single episode that lasts from 4 to 6 weeks? While the majority of patients recover completely, recurrences ensue in approximately 40% of cases.? Uncommon presentations ofHSP include ocular, pulmonary, scrotal, testicular, and neurological involvement.' Oropharyngeal manifestations have been only rarely reported? and are not mentioned in extensive reviews of the usual and unusuaf manifestations of HSP. We present the case of a IS-year-old girl who presented with gingivitis, gingival petechiae, and mandibular pain as the primary manifestation of her recurrent HSP.