What is purpura nephritis
Purpura nephritis is a type of renal inflammation caused by Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) and is a secondary glomerular disease. It usually occurs in children and adolescents, but adults can also develop the disease. Typical symptoms of purpura nephritis include skin purpura, joint pain, abdominal pain, and kidney damage (such as hematuria, proteinuria, etc.). This article will introduce in detail the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of purpura nephritis.
1. Causes of purpura nephritis
The main cause of purpura nephritis is Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP), a vasculitis caused by an abnormal response of the immune system. The specific cause is unclear, but it may be related to the following factors:
| Possible causes | Description |
|---|---|
| infection | Bacterial or viral infections (such as strep, influenza viruses) may trigger an immune response. |
| medicine | Certain antibiotics or NSAIDs may trigger allergic reactions. |
| food allergy | Foods such as seafood and nuts may become allergens. |
| genetic factors | Some patients have a family history, suggesting genetic susceptibility. |
2. Symptoms of purpura nephritis
The symptoms of purpura nephritis can be divided into systemic symptoms and kidney-related symptoms:
| Symptom type | Specific performance |
|---|---|
| skin symptoms | Symmetrical purple-red rash (purpura) on the lower limbs or buttocks. |
| joint symptoms | Joint swelling and pain are more common in the knees and ankles. |
| gastrointestinal symptoms | Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal bleeding may occur in severe cases. |
| kidney symptoms | Hematuria, proteinuria, edema, and a few patients may develop renal failure. |
3. Diagnosis of purpura nephritis
The diagnosis of purpura nephritis requires a combination of clinical manifestations and laboratory tests:
| Check items | meaning |
|---|---|
| Urine routine | Detect signs of kidney damage such as hematuria and proteinuria. |
| blood test | Assess renal function (eg, creatinine, urea nitrogen) and markers of inflammation. |
| kidney biopsy | Clarify the type of renal pathology and guide treatment. |
| Imaging examination | Ultrasound or CT to rule out other kidney diseases. |
4. Treatment of Purpura Nephritis
The treatment goals are to control inflammation and protect kidney function. The specific plan is formulated according to the severity of the disease:
| Treatment | Applicable situations |
|---|---|
| General treatment | Patients with mild symptoms can recover on their own by resting and avoiding allergens. |
| drug treatment | Glucocorticoids (such as prednisone) are used in moderate to severe cases; immunosuppressants are used in refractory patients. |
| Symptomatic treatment | Antihypertensive drugs (such as ACEI) control proteinuria, and diuretics relieve edema. |
| dialysis or transplant | Rarely, patients with renal failure require replacement therapy. |
5. Prognosis and precautions
The prognosis for most patients with purpura nephritis is good, with children recovering more quickly. However, some adults or those with severe pathology may progress to chronic kidney disease. Patients should note:
1. Regularly review urine routine and renal function to monitor changes in condition.
2. Avoid exposure to known allergens, such as certain foods or medications.
3. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and eat a low-salt diet to reduce the burden on the kidneys.
4. Seek medical attention promptly if new edema occurs or urine output decreases.
Although purpura nephritis is somewhat self-limiting, early diagnosis and standardized treatment are crucial to protecting renal function. If you or your family members develop related symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical advice from a nephrology specialist as soon as possible.
check the details
check the details
en
