Multiple entero-entero fistulae: An unusual complication of Henoch-Schonlein purpura

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is an immunologically mediated systemic vasculitis of small blood vessels that frequently involves the gastrointestinal tract, Surgeons often are asked to assess patients with HSP for abdominal pain. Common complications that lead to surgical intervention include intussusception, perforation, necrosis, and massive gastrointestinal bleeding. However, the development of multiple entero entero fistulae has not been described previously, Herein the authors describe the case of a 10-year-old girl with HSP who had a typical rash, seizures secondary to central nervous vasculitis, and gastrointestinal involvement. The abdominal pain persisted for several days until marked fever and hypotension developed, which necessitated surgical intervention. During laparotomy, multiple entero-entero fistulae of the ileum were found, which required resection and primary anastomosis. Histological examination of the ileum was consistent with HSP vasculitis, The patient made an unremarkable recovery and has had no recurrence of symptoms. Copyright (C) 1996 by W.B. Saunders Company