Henoch-Schönlein purpura associated with Toxocara canis infection

J Rheumatol. 1999 Feb;26(2):443-5.

Abstract

We describe a case of Henoch-Schönlein purpura in the onset of Toxocara canis infection. The diagnosis was made in a 17-year-old boy based on the association of palpable purpura, oligoarthritis, acute abdominal pain, microhematuria, and cutaneous vasculitis. Toxocariasis, suggested by hypereosinophilia and domestic contact with a puppy, was confirmed by anti-Toxocara IgG and IgE and Western blot. Complete spontaneous resolution occurred within a few days. Transient presence of antinuclear antibodies and the absence of larvae in the skin biopsy favor an immunologic parasite induced disorder. A hypersensitivity vasculitis to Toxocara canis is suggested.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Animals
  • Antibodies, Helminth / blood
  • Blotting, Western
  • Humans
  • IgA Vasculitis / complications*
  • IgA Vasculitis / diagnosis
  • IgA Vasculitis / pathology
  • Male
  • Remission, Spontaneous
  • Toxocara canis*
  • Toxocariasis / complications*
  • Toxocariasis / diagnosis

Substances

  • Antibodies, Helminth