STM Article Repository

Background: IgA vasculitis, formerly known as Henoch – Schoenlein Purpura (HSP), is vasculitis of small vessels, which is a rare and life threatening condition in adults. It is a type 3 hypersensitivity reaction which can affect kidney, joints, skin and intestine. It is a rare presentation in adults and more severe than its pediatric counterpart.

Case Presentation: A 26 year old male with no comorbidities presented with complaints of non-resolving macular rashes on bilateral lower limbs and abdominal pain associated with fever and blood stained loose stools. Upper GI Endoscopy showed features of duodenitis and skin biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of IgA Vasculitis. Patient was started on steroids and was discharged as he improved symptomatically.

Conclusion: Clinical suspicion for adult onset IgA vasculitis should increase in the clinical practice. Early detection of the disease and early initiation of appropriate treatment help in improvement of prognosis of complications associated with IgA vasculitis.