Diagnostic challenge of intestinal obstruction secondary to Henoch–Schonlein purpura

Abstract

Henoch–Schonlein purpura is the most common form of vasculitis in pediatric age group. Gastrointestinal manifestations have been long recognized as part of the disease, but usually preceded by other manifestations. We present a case of a boy whose initial manifestation of the disease was bowel obstruction and ischemia requiring surgical intervention twice with diagnostic dilemma prior to diagnosis of Henoch–Schonlein purpura. Although common surgical diseases prove to be the culprit in most cases, a surgeon should always keep an open mind for possibility beyond surgical diseases. Multidisciplinary approach to situations where ambiguities in diagnosis exist proves to be a valuable tool aiding surgical decision.

Keywords: gastrointestinal, henochscholine, intestinal ischemia, intussusception, purpura