BRIDGING IGA VASCULITIS GAPS – ATYPICAL GASTROINTESTINAL MANIFESTATIONS AS A PREDICTOR OF RELAPSE

Abstract

IgA vasculitis (IgAV), also known as Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP), is the most common systemic vasculitis in children. The diagnosis is made based on the presence of characteristic purpuric lesions in combination with either one of the joints, gastrointestinal, or renal manifestations. Despite having a generally excellent prognosis, 30-40% of the patients experience relapse. During relapse, purpuric lesions typically precede the other systemic symptoms that tend to manifest with a milder severity compared to the initial presentation. We reported a 7-year-old boy with atypical presentation of lgAV relapse in which he had severe gastrointestinal symptoms prior to the onset of purpuric rashes. This case report serves as an addition to literature where early recognition of these symptoms can act as a good indicator to diagnose IgAV relapse.