[Dapsone for chronic skin lesions in 3 children suffering from Henoch-Schönlein vasculitis]

Abstract

We describe 3 cases of chronic purpuric skin lesions in children suffering from systemic vasculitis: 3 children with Henoch-Schönlein purpura. Dapsone was introduced when skin lesions were recurrent, extensive, and persistent, due to its known ability to act as an anti-IgA and as an anticytotoxic agent against polynuclear neutrophils. Fast and complete but purely suspensive healing of skin lesions was noted. One child developed methemoglobinemia, a known side-effect of dapsone, highlighting the need for adequate prescription and follow-up.