Treating Immunoglobulin A Vasculitis in an Elderly Patient Using Steroids: A Clinical Study

In Vivo. 2019 Jul-Aug;33(4):1325-1328. doi: 10.21873/invivo.11606.

Abstract

Herein, we report a case of immunoglobulin A vasculitis (IgAV) onset in an elderly patient. A 61-year-old male presented to our hospital with palpable purpura on his right leg and abdomen and diffuse abdominal pain. Computed tomography revealed thickened intestinal wall and ascites. In addition, his serum IgA and urinary protein levels were elevated. The histopathological finding of palpable purpura indicated vasculitis, and he was diagnosed with IgAV. Accordingly, steroid therapy was initiated. Gradually, purpura and abdominal pain disappeared, and he was discharged on day 26 after admission. Although IgAV is common in children, only few cases have been reported in elderly. Thus, when examining patients, including elderly, with palpable purpura and abdominal pain, the possibility of IgAV should be considered.

Keywords: IgA vasculitis; onset in elderly patient; steroid.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin A / immunology*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phenotype
  • Steroids / therapeutic use*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Vasculitis / diagnosis
  • Vasculitis / etiology*
  • Vasculitis / therapy*

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin A
  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Steroids