Immunoglobulin A Vasculitis Nephritis in an Adult

Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV; initially known as Henoch-Schönlein purpura) is a form of vasculitis involving the small blood vessels of the gastrointestinal tract, skin, joints, and kidney, presenting as a multisystem disorder. A 21-year-old gentleman presented with joint pain, skin rash, abdominal pain, and proteinuria. Biopsies performed from the skin and kidney were both consistent with IgA deposition. The patient was treated with a short course of low-dose steroids because of the involvement of multiple organ systems. His symptoms abated, proteinuria resolved, and steroids were stopped after four weeks. He remains in complete remission at the time of the last follow-up, 12 months after the initial presentation.