Henoch-Schonlein Purpura: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Henoch-Schonlein Purpura?
A rheumatologist (a doctor who treats immune system and joint diseases) often leads care for IgA vasculitis, the disease once called Henoch-Schonlein purpura. A pediatrician (a children's doctor) often sees children, and a nephrologist (a kidney doctor) helps when the kidneys are involved. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is Henoch-Schonlein purpura?
Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is now called IgA vasculitis. IgA vasculitis is a disease of the small blood vessels.
In this disease, an antibody called immunoglobulin A collects in small blood vessels. The vessels become inflamed and leak blood.
Nearly all people with IgA vasculitis develop a red or purple rash. Some also have problems in the gut, joints, and kidneys.
Symptoms
Rash, belly pain, and joint pain are often the first symptoms. They can appear in any order. Symptoms include:
- A rash that looks like red or purple bruises or small red dots. It usually appears on the legs and buttocks. It is not painful and does not itch.
- Belly pain that can be mild or severe, with nausea or vomiting. Diarrhea can also occur and may be bloody.
- Pain and swelling in the joints, often the knees and ankles.
- Blood in the urine, which is a common sign that the kidneys are affected.
- Swelling of the testicles in some boys.
Protein in the urine and high blood pressure are signs of more serious kidney problems.
Causes and who gets it
IgA vasculitis happens when the immune system attacks the body's own cells and organs. Researchers do not know what causes this unusual response.
Many people have an infection of the nose and throat before they get it. It has also been linked with bacteria and viruses, foods, immunizations, insect bites, and medicines.
It is most common in young children between the ages of 4 and 7, but people of all ages can be affected. It is more common in boys than in girls.
How doctors diagnose it
Doctors use your medical history, a physical exam, and lab tests. A urine test is done in all cases to look for blood or protein in the urine.
A skin biopsy, which means removing a small piece of skin to look at under a microscope, can help confirm the diagnosis. A kidney biopsy can confirm it too and show how much kidney damage there is.
Doctors keep checking kidney function with blood and urine tests for at least 6 months after most symptoms go away.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for IgA vasculitis. The disease usually goes away on its own. Doctors may suggest medicines to relieve symptoms.
If a medicine may have caused the disease, talk with your doctor about stopping it. Your doctor decides, so do not stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
For belly pain, a doctor may prescribe a corticosteroid, a medicine that lowers immune system activity and decreases swelling. For joint pain, a doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen or a corticosteroid. Do not take these anti-inflammatory medicines if your kidneys may be affected.
If the kidneys are involved, the goal is to prevent chronic kidney disease. Treatment may include a corticosteroid or another medicine that quiets the immune system. Blood pressure medicines can help when there is protein in the urine.
In rare cases a section of bowel folds into itself and causes a blockage. Doctors can fix this with a lower GI series or with surgery.
Most people recover completely. The symptoms may come back, usually within the first year, but they typically go away again on their own. Adults are much more likely than children to develop chronic kidney disease.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have symptoms of IgA vasculitis that last for more than a few days. Also call if you have colored urine or low urine output after an episode.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have severe belly pain or pressure, bleeding that will not stop, trouble breathing, or fainting.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either kind of doctor can examine a new rash, order urine tests, and arrange the kidney checks that follow an episode. They can also refer you to a specialist and keep track of your follow-up visits.
Common questions
Is IgA vasculitis the same as Henoch-Schonlein purpura?
Yes, they are the same disease. IgA vasculitis is the newer name for Henoch-Schonlein purpura, or HSP. Some sources still use the old name.
Does Henoch-Schonlein purpura go away on its own?
Yes, in most people it does. Most people recover completely without treatment, and symptoms usually go away within a few weeks to months. Symptoms may return, usually within the first year.
Can Henoch-Schonlein purpura harm the kidneys?
Yes, sometimes it can. Kidney damage is the most common and serious long-term problem, although severe damage is rare. Urine and blood tests for at least 6 months help doctors catch it early.
Can Henoch-Schonlein purpura be prevented?
No, experts have not yet found a way to prevent it. If your kidneys are affected, treatment may help prevent serious kidney problems.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - IgA vasculitis - Henoch-Schonlein purpura
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - IgA Vasculitis
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
