Direct Immunofluorescence Results of the Skin Biopsy and Frequency of Systemic Involvement in Children with Henoch-Schonlein Purpura.

Objective: Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a common vasculitis in children that can present with multi-organ involvement. The aim of this study is to investigate the correlation between direct immunofluorescence (DIF) results and the systemic involvements of the HSP in pediatric patients.

Methods: Those HSP patients with leukocytoclastic vasculitis on their biopsies who also had documented immunoglobulin/complement deposition by DIF were included in our study. Their demographic and laboratory data and clinical manifestations were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Medical records of 95 patients (1.5-15 years old) were studied. 26.3% of the patients showed renal, 86.3% articular, and 70.3% gastrointestinal involvement. The risk of renal involvement was significantly higher in those with C3 deposition in their skin DIF. IgM deposition was mostly associated with articular involvement.

Conclusions: Pediatric HSP patients who had C3 deposition in their skin DIF should be selected for further evaluation regarding HSP nephritis.