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IgA vasculitis immune complex deposition — MRCPCH TAS MCQ

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ModeratePathologyIgA vasculitis immune complex depositionMRCPCH TAS

A 6-year-old develops palpable purpura on the legs, arthralgia and abdominal pain after a respiratory illness. Urinalysis shows haematuria. What is the most likely pathological mechanism?

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Correct answer: A — IgA immune complex deposition in small vessels

IgA vasculitis involves IgA immune complex deposition in small vessels and can affect skin, gut, joints and kidneys. Anti-GBM disease causes pulmonary-renal disease but not the classic palpable purpura syndrome. The pearl is that renal involvement determines follow-up intensity in IgA vasculitis.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics; RCPCH Theory examination syllabi; Lissauer's Illustrated Textbook of Paediatrics