Unusual manifestations of Henoch-Schönlein syndrome

Henoch-Schönlein syndrome represents a diagnostic challenge when the abdominal and/or joint manifestations precede the cutaneous lesions. Laparotomy is often performed unnecessarily. We describe a patient whose abdominal symptoms antedated the appearance of cutaneous lesions by three months. Gastrointestinal blood loss, thrombocytosis, hypoproteinemia, and the roentgenographic appearance of the small intestine suggested the correct diagnosis. His course was further complicated by hypertension associated with elevated plasma renin levels without evidence of nephritis. Joint manifestations were mild and transient as were testicular pain and swelling.