Lambliasis-associated Schönlein-Henoch purpura in an Italian traveller: first case report in Italy

Abstract

A unique report of Schönlein-Henoch purpura (SHP) associated with a recent Giardia lamblia enteric infection is described and discussed on the ground of the available literature. Tinidazole plus an appropriate probiotic therapy, including Lactobacillus reuteri and vitamin D, proved to be effective in the condition. SHP is an immunocomplex-mediated disorder characterised by a number of differently associated signs and symptoms, leading to the possible involvement of the skin, joints, abdomen and kidneys. Recent bacterial, viral, or protozoan infections may trigger the disease onset in patients of all ages. The paper describes the first case of SHP triggered by a giardiasis. Tinidazole plus an appropriate probiotic therapy, i.e. L. reuteri and vitamin D proved to be effective in this condition. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of lambliasis-associated SHP described in an international traveller.

Keywords: Giardia lamblia; Schönlein-Henoch purpura; giardiasis; travel medicine.