Colonoscopic diagnosis and reduction of recurrent intussusception owing to Henoch–Schönlein purpura without purpura

AbstractAbout 50−75% of patients with Henoch–Schonlein purpura (HSP) develop gastro-intestinal symptoms with surgical complications such as intussusception occurring in 0.7–13.6%. In 10–40% of patients, however, gastro-intestinal manifestations may precede the onset of purpura. In patients with gastro-intestinal tract involvement without purpura, confirming the diagnosis of HSP and determining the appropriate treatment remains difficult. A seven-year-old boy presented with recurrent intussusception owing to HSP without purpura. It was confirmed pathologically and treated via colonoscopy. Early colonoscopic intervention can contribute to the early diagnosis of HSP and its subsequent management by avoiding unnecessary surgical invasion.