The condition was first described in 1808 by Willan, but it was Eduard Heinrich Henoch, studying under Johannes Lucas Sch nlein, Professor of Medicine, in Berlin, who reported the link between gastrointestinal symptoms and a purpuric rash in 1874. The condition is a small vessel vasculitis characterised by a non-thrombocytopenic purpuric rash, occurring particularly over the buttocks and lower limbs. Urine should be tested regularly for haematuria and proteinuria. Blood pressure, urea, and creatinine should also be mea- sured as markers of renal involvement. The full blood count should demonstrate a normal platelet count, and clotting studies should be normal.
Treatment involves analgesia and steroid therapy if there is bowel involvement.
Steroids are not used for renal involvement, and treatment for acute renal failure may be required.