A generally self-limited IgA vasculitis. May follow URI or streptococcal infection. Aspirin and corticosteroids have been used for joint pain and GI symptoms respectively. Corticosteroids do not change the course of the associated renal disease. Bleeding caused by heparin.
Treatment is protamine sulfate, which forms an inactive complex with heparin.
1 mg of protamine zinc will neutralize about 90 to 115 U of heparin depending on derivation of heparin. Calculate dose and administer over 10 minutes. Do not exceed 50 mg. Administer slowly to prevent hypotension. Protamine is an anticoagulant when not complexed with heparin.