Understanding IgA Vasculitis: A Child’s Case Highlights the Importance of Early Diagnosis

When four-year-old female child developed severe abdominal pain, joint swelling, and a purplish rash on her legs, her family thought it was a simple viral illness. But her symptoms worsened — nosebleeds, blood in her stool, and difficulty standing due to painful joints.

At Thumbay Hospital Fujairah, Dr.Ezzat Yousef Mohamed Eltaher , Consultant Pediatrics & Neonatology, diagnosed her with IgA vasculitis, also known as Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) — a condition in children that causes inflammation of small blood vessels.

What Is IgA Vasculitis?

IgA vasculitis is an immune system disorder that leads to inflammation in tiny blood vessels. This inflammation causes them to leak, leading to:

• Skin rash (purplish spots, often on the legs and buttocks)
• Joint pain and swelling
• Stomach pain, sometimes with blood in stools
• Kidney involvement, detected through urine tests

Although most children recover completely, kidney involvement — as in this case — requires careful follow-up.

Why the Kidneys Matter

During her evaluation, doctors found protein in her urine, a sign that the kidneys were affected. In children, small amounts of protein can be normal, but persistent or high levels can signal Kidney Injury.

Her LAB test showed moderate/significant protein leakage, though not at the level seen in nephrotic syndrome (sub nephrotic range proteinuria) and close monitoring essential

“Most cases of IgA vasculitis improve on their own. But when the kidneys are involved, we need to be cautious (close monitor of Uprotein, BP, and kidney function) For one year, even moderate protein in the urine can be an early warning of future kidney Injury need close follow ups.”

How Was She Treated?

• Initially, she was given supportive care: rest, hydration, and pain relief.
• When symptoms persisted, doctors prescribed corticosteroids, which help reduce severe abdominal pain and joint inflammation.
• She is now under our pediatric follow-up, with regular close monitor of Urine/protein, BP for (Hypertension), S.creatinine KFT for monitor her kidney health.
• We Plane to Referrer for Pediatric Nephrologist if (Nephrotic range proteinuria)

Key Takeaways for Parents

• Watch for warning signs: A sudden purplish rash, joint pain, or abdominal pain in a child may need medical attention.
• Don’t ignore blood in stool or urine: These are red flags that require urgent evaluation.
• Most children recover well: With proper treatment and monitoring, long-term complications are rare.
• Follow-up is critical: Especially when kidney involvement is suspected.

Conclusion

IgA vasculitis may be uncommon, but early recognition is vital. Her case shows how a seemingly simple rash and stomach ache can reveal a more serious condition. Thanks to timely diagnosis and treatment, she is expected to make a full recovery — but her journey is a reminder of the importance of listening to children’s symptoms and seeking medical advice early.