An evaluation of biomarkers indicating endothelial cell damage, inflammation and coagulation in children with Henoch-Schönlein purpura

Abstract

Abstract Objective Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is characterized by generalized vasculitis. The etiopathogenesis of the disease is unknown, but inflammation and endothelial dysfunction have been held responsible. Therefore, herein we investigated serum levels of biomarkers indicating endothelial cell damage, inflammation and coagulation in children with HSP. Materials and methods Twenty six patients with HSP and 26 healthy children were included in the study. Routine biochemical tests and laboratory parameters showing inflammation, coagulation, and endothelial cell damage were examined in all subjects. Results White blood cell (WBC) number, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), neutrophil/lymphocyte rate (NLR), triglyceride, immunoglobulin A (IgA), and C3 were significantly higher in children with HSP than the controls. HDL and albumin levels were lower in the patients with HSP. Endocan levels were not significantly different between the HSP and control groups (p = 0.884). Serum endocan levels in patients with HSP were inversely correlated only with activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) (r = −0.485, p = 0.012). Conclusion Coagulation abnormalities and increased acute phase reactants were present in patients with HSP while no difference was determined in endocan levels.