Pulmonary hemorrhage: An often fatal complication of Henoch-Schoenlein purpura

Two patients with Henoch-Schoenlein purpura developed pulmonary hemorrhage. One patient survived after treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone and cyclophosphamide; the other patient died from cardiopulmonary arrest before therapy could be initiated. Although rare, pulmonary complications of Henoch-Schoenlein purpura can lead to rapid demise unless immediate supportive treatment is initiated.