An unusual complication of Henoch-Schönlein vasculitis in an 11-year old boy: Global testicular necrosis mimicking testicular torsion

Abstract

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP), an anaphylactic vasculitis, is characterized by palpable purpuric rash and collection of immunglobuline A (Ig A) around small vessels. Its clinical triad is purpura, arthritis and abdominal pain. Henoch-Schönlein purpura usually involves the kidney, gastrointestinal tract, joints and, rarely, nonrenal genitourinary organs. Except all rare cases that progress to renal failure, HSP is a disease which resolves without any sequelae. Henoch-Schönlein purpura may mimic surgical conditions such as appendicitis and testicular torsion, leading to unnecessary laparotomy and explorations. Herein, we report a case of an 11- year old boy, diagnosed on the 12th day of HSP and operated on with suspicion of testicular torsion, for which surgical exploration did not reveal any torsion but global necrosis of the testicle.