Clinical features

Clinical features include:

• non-thrombocytopenic purpura:
  • over the extensor surface of the buttocks and legs
  • rash is common and is often the presenting feature
    
    
• other skin manifestations:
  • macules or papules
  • urticaria especially of the face and legs
  • lesions occur in crops and may be precipitated by abrading the skin
    
    
• arthritis:
  • in up to two thirds of patients
  • affects large joints, flitting in nature
  • usually lasts only a few days
    
    
• nephritis - mild focal segmental glomerulonephritis, proteinuria, microscopic haematuria
  
  
• abdominal pain:
  • a common feature and may precede other symptoms
  • there may be melaena
    
    
• localised oedema around orbits of eyes, backs of hands and feet
  
  
• testicular inflammation in males
  
  
• central nervous system involvement occurs rarely, and can result in fits and coma