Adult onset Schönlein-Henoch purpura associated with Helicobacter pylori infection

Abstract

Schönlein-Henoch purpura (SHP) is a systemic vasculitis, primarily involving the skin, gastrointestinal (GI) tract, joints, and kidneys. A wide variety of different conditions may be implicated in the pathogenesis of SHP. We report a 33-year-old man who presented with SHP accompanied by gastric Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection. The GI manifestations and purpuric rashes were dramatically resolved after Hp eradication therapy. To date, very few publications have focused on the possible pathogenetic relationship between Hp infection and SHP. © 2009 The Japanese Society of Internal Medicine.