J Korean Rheum Assoc.  2004 Dec;11(4):417-421.

A Case of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura Complicated by Hemorrhagic Ascites

• Lee BM
• Jung HC
• Bang SJ
• Suh HS
• Choi SW

Abstract

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a systemic vasculitis with IgA dominant immune complex deposits affecting small vessels in the skin, joint, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common and may precede the appearance of characteristic skin rash. These manifestations include abdominal pain, bleeding, bowel infarction, intussusception, or even, perforation. However, hemorrhagic ascites has been rarely described in patients with HSP. The pathophysiologic mechanism is presumably a vasculitis of the small vessels within the serosa. We report a 37-year-old man with HSP complicated by hemorrhagic ascites. Contrast CT of the abdomen showed extensive bowel wall thickening and ascites. A paracentesis yielded hemorrhagic fluid. These abdominal manifestations were improved after methylprednisolone pulse therapy.

Keyword

Henoch-Schonlein purpura; Hemorrhagic ascites; Methylprednisolone pulse

MeSH Terms

Abdomen
Abdominal Pain
Adult
Antigen-Antibody Complex
Ascites*
Exanthema
Gastrointestinal Tract
Hemorrhage
Humans
Immunoglobulin A
Infarction
Intussusception
Joints
Kidney
Methylprednisolone
Paracentesis
Purpura, Schoenlein-Henoch*
Serous Membrane
Skin
Systemic Vasculitis
Vasculitis
Antigen-Antibody Complex
Immunoglobulin A
Methylprednisolone