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What is H.S.P.?
H.S.P. is a condition which causes blood vessels to become inflamed (irritated and swollen). It usually affects the small blood vessels in the skin causing a rash; the rash is called “Purpura”. However H.S.P. may also affect blood vessels in the intestines, the kidneys and the joints.
The cause of H.S.P. is unknown and Doctors don’t know how to prevent it. It occurs most often after an upper respiratory infection, for example a simple cough or a common cold. It appears most often in children from two to ten years of age, but it can occur in anyone. H.S.P. is not contagious.
What can H.S.P. cause?
A Skin Rash. This looks like reddish-purple spots, usually on the buttocks and lower legs. Many children with H.S.P. also have some swelling over the top of the feet and backs of the hands and, in boys, around the scrotum.
Pain in the joints. Mainly this pain is in the knees and ankles but can happen in any joint.
Blood in the stool (poo) or urine (wee). This is caused by the blood vessels in the intestines and the kidneys becoming irritated and inflamed. Serious kidney problems are uncommon but a repeat urine test at your GP’s (Family Doctor) will highlight these early.
Your child’s urine will need checking for the first 6 months after the rash first develops. This is because, if the kidneys are involved, although most show signs in the first month, it can still develop later. If the kidneys are involved your child will need following up more carefully.
Stomach Pains. Is quite common and in most cases resolves with simple pain-killers such as Paracetamol. In rare cases an abnormal folding of the intestine known as “Intussusception” can happen. Intussusception causes a blockage in the intestines that may need surgery.
What is the treatment for H.S.P.?
As H.S.P. usually gets better without any medical help, there is no specific treatment for it. Painkillers (Paracetamol) or anti-inflammatory medicines (Ibuprofen) are used to help relieve any joint pain.
Antibiotics may be used to treat the infection that may have triggered H.S.P. Your doctor may also recommend a steroid drug called “Prednisolone”. This drug is only given to children who are poorly enough to need to be admitted to the hospital.
What happens next?
Usually there are no lasting problems after having H.S.P., however about half of the people who have had H.S.P. once will get it again. After discharge from the hospital you will be asked to see your GP for another urine test or you may be shown how to test urine at home. Older children will also need their blood pressure checked as well. This is to check for any kidney problems.
If my child has H.S.P., when should I contact my GP or the hospital?
- If your child’s urine is red, rusty or blood coloured.
- If your child’s urine has ++ or more of protein on the urine dipstick 2 days in a row.
- If the joint swelling is very painful and especially if it stops your child walking.
- If your child has severe tummy aches or if your child vomits green fluid (bile) or has blood in the poo.
- If your son’s testicles are swollen or painful.
- If your instincts as a parent tell you something is seriously wrong with your child.
- Always take your child’s urine & BP monitoring chart when you go to see any doctor.
For further information: contact Ward 24 on 0300 615 4623 or 0300 615 4624 during the period you have been given as open access following discharge; and then your GP.
Resources
The InfoKID website offers helpful information about this and other kidney conditions.
https:/
Child name: (affix patient’s label)
GP:
DOB:
Address:
Consultant:
| Date | BP (mm Hg) | Urine Dipstick for Protein | Urine Dipstick for Blood |
Please bring this chart to every appointment at GP or hospital
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Paediatrics service.
About this information
Service:
Paediatrics
Reference:
P/023
Approval date:
18 July 2024
Review date:
1 July 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.