Renal Involvement in Henoch-Schönlein Vasculitis: Frequency and Risk Factors in Egyptian Children

Introduction: Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura (HSP) is the most common vasculitis in children. It is a self-limited disease. Nephritis is one of the most serious complications, and many risk factors have been related to its prognosis. Aim of the study: This study aimed to determine the frequency and risk factors for renal affection in Egyptian children with Henoch-Schoenlein Purpura.Methods: This retrospective study included 100 pediatric patients diagnosed with HSP. Selected medical data and laboratory results were obtained by reviewing patients’ records.Results: The study included 100 pediatric patients diagnosed with HSP. Among them, 26% had renal involvement. Ten patients (38%) had non-nephrotic proteinuria, two patients (8%) had nephrotic-range proteinuria, six patients (23%) had isolated hematuria, and eight patients (31%) developed nephritis. Still, renal failure was not detected in any of our patients. The mean age was significantly higher in patients with renal involvement compared to the non-renal affection group with a median age range of 10 (5.8-12) years and 7 (5-10) years, respectively. Infection as a triggering factor was significantly higher in the renal affection group than the non-renal group. No other statistically significant differences between both groups as regards other clinical and laboratory data were detected.Conclusion: Renal affection was found in 26% of Egyptian HSP pediatric patients. Age and infection as a triggering factor might be risk factors for renal involvement.