Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV), formerly called Henoch-Schönlein purpura, is an abnormal immune system reaction. It causes inflammation and damage to small blood vessels in the skin. This causes a rash, usually in the lower part of the body. The rash looks like bruises or red-purplish spots. It can also affect blood vessels of the joints, intestines, kidneys, and other organs.
This reaction most often affects children. It can also affect adults. The exact cause isn't known. It may be linked with a recent infection from a virus or bacteria. Some kinds of food or medicines may be a factor. The symptoms get better in 4 to 6 weeks. But they may come back during the next 6 months. This isn't a contagious disease. It can't be spread to other people.
Home care
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Have your child rest at home until they are feeling better.
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Unless told otherwise, feed your child their normal diet.
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Unless another medicine was prescribed, you can give your child acetaminophen for fever, fussiness, or pain. In children over 6 months old, you may use children's ibuprofen. Don't give aspirin to children or teens unless your child’s doctor says it is safe. Aspirin can put your child at risk for Reye syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
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Give your child extra fluids for the first few days. For children under 1 year old, continue regular feedings (formula or breast). Between feedings, give an oral rehydration solution. You can buy these from grocery and drug stores. You don't need a prescription. For children over 1 year old, give plenty of fluids like water, juice, gelatin, ginger ale, lemonade, and ice pops.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your child's doctor as advised.
When to get medical care
Contact the doctor right away if your child has:
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Belly (abdominal) pain.
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Symptoms that get worse.
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New symptoms.
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Blood in their vomit or stool.
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Pink or brown-colored urine. (This may appear up to 3 months after this illness.)
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Coughed up blood.
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Pain in the testicles.
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A headache.
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Chest pain.
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A seizure.
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A fever.
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A change in the level of alertness.
Online Medical Reviewer: Melinda Murray Ratini DO
Online Medical Reviewer: Rajadurai Samnishanth Researcher
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed: 04/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
