Pulmonary haemorrhage and pleural effusion in an elderly patient with Henoch-Schönlein purpura (IgA vasculitis)-: a case report

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) also known as IgA vasculitis is a systemic small vessel vasculitis mainly affecting the skin, kidneys, joints, and gastrointestinal tract. However, the disease can affect any organ system of the body. The classic tetrad of presentation in Henoch- Schönlein purpura includes palpable purpura, joints pain, abdominal pain sometimes associated with bleeding, and renal disease. Pulmonary and pleural involvement in HSP is a rare manifestation and occurs more commonly in adults than in children. We report the case of a 67-year-old woman with diabetes and HSP complicated by pulmonary haemorrhage and pleural effusion. She was managed initially with pulse Methylprednisolone and Cyclophosphamide followed by a course of oral steroids. An excellent outcome was achieved.