Research on Pathogenesis and Management Strategies for Pediatric Allergic Purpura from Both Chinese and Western Medical Perspectives

Abstract

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a common systemic vasculitis in children, affecting small blood vessels in the skin, musculoskeletal system, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Its primary clinical manifestations include non-thrombocytopenic palpable purpura, arthritis or arthralgia, diffuse abdominal pain, and renal involvement characterized by hematuria and/or proteinuria. Approximately 20% to 80% of pediatric HSP patients develop renal damage, including hematuria and proteinuria. Furthermore, childhood HSP exhibits a high recurrence rate; frequent and prolonged episodes of rash recurrence increase the susceptibility to renal injury. Therefore, early intervention in pediatric HSP is crucial for improving prognosis. The pathogenesis of allergic purpura remains unclear in modern medicine. While various indicators for assessing disease severity and prognosis are well-established, treatment typically involves symptomatic management. No specific therapy currently exists, and treatments like corticosteroids, immunosuppression, and blood purification are reserved for severe HSP. Crucially, children are in a critical growth and development phase, and certain immunotherapies may cause severe immunosuppression, serious complications, and increased risks of infection and organ damage. With the continuous development and advancement of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), new treatment options have emerged for pediatric HSP patients. Multiple studies indicate that TCM treatment for childhood HSP can reduce recurrence rates, achieving satisfactory outcomes in both efficacy and safety.