Modified Sipjeondaebo-tang (JAROTANG) for Henoch-Schonlein purpura nephritis (HSPN): Two case reports

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a disease commonly manifesting purpura, joint pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms. It can lead to glomerulonephritis (Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis, HSPN), which is directly associated with mortality and progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). While HSP occurs more commonly in children, deadly outcomes occur at a higher rate in adult patients. Previous studies have not reported effective treatment of HSPN by Western or traditional medicine. Here, we report two cases of adult HSPN patients treated with the herbal medicine Jarotang (JRT, modified Sipjeondaebo-tang, modified SJDBT).

Two female patients (Cases 1 and 2), who were 26 and 27 years old, respectively, came to visit us complaining mainly of cutaneous purpura. Both women were diagnosed with HSP, and the results of urinalysis indicated that the HSP had already progressed to renal involvement (3+ proteinuria with 3+ urine occult blood in case 1; 100-120 RBC/HPF with 2+ urine occult blood in Case 2). Both patients were given modified SJDBT in the name of JRT, with some herbs added to disperse and circulate stagnant qi, relieve indigestion, and clear heat. After treatment, patient 1 showed only a trace level of urine occult blood, with disappearance of purpura and proteinuria. Patient 2 showed complete remission of purpura and hematuria.

Modified SJDBT, namely, JRT was effective in treating 2 cases of adulthood HSP and subsequent nephritis. This may be due to the ability of this therapy to replenish qi and blood and/or its immunological effect on T cells. The medication can serve as an effective cure for HSPN.