[Henoch-Schönlein purpura in adults: a study of 9 cases]

Schönlein-Henoch purpura (PSH) is a predominantly pediatric vasculitis with, generally, a benign prognosis. However, in adults can acquire greater severity and more frequency of renal involvement. We report our experience with 9 cases of this entity.

Retrospective review of the leukocytoclastic vasculitis admitted to our hospital in 1995-2002. Patients fulfilling > or =3 of Michels's criteria for PSH: a) palpable purpura; b) abdominal angina; c) gastrointestinal bleeding; d) hematuria; e) age >20 years; and f) absence of responsible medication), were identified. The incidence was 0.65 cases/100,000 inhabitants >15 years, without seasonal predominance. We identified 9 patients (7 males, age range: 22 to 88 years). There was palpable purpura in 100%, gastrointestinal involvement in 67%, renal in 78%, and oligoarticular in 22%. Recovery was uneventful, except for a case with previous renal insufficiency.

We found a low frequency of articular involvement and high renal affectation but with an excellent prognosis.