Effect of different protein diet on the prognosis of children with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura

Abstract Introduction The aim of this study was to explore the association of different protein diet with the recurrence/recurrent rash of Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) and to analyze the potential risk factors for recurrence of HSP. Methods A total of 72 children with HSP treated in Beijing Children's Hospital from January to June 2021 were collected retrospectively. According to the different protein diets, the children were divided into an animal protein group with 32 children and a plant protein group with 40 children. The clinical data of the children were collected, including general data, times of skin rash recurrence, the incidence of HSP recurrence, and the incidence of renal lesions. The daily protein intake of the children was recorded by questionnaire and followed up for 8 weeks after discharge. Results There were no statistical difference between animal protein group and plant protein group in times of skin rash recurrence, the incidence of HSP recurrence, and the incidence of renal lesions of children (p > 0.05). However, the protein intake of animal protein group was significantly higher than that of plant protein group (p  0.05). In addition, respiratory infection at the beginning of the disease was potential risk factors for the recurrence of HSP in children (p < 0.05). Conclusions There is no significant association between animal or plant protein diet and the recurrence of HSP or skin rash. Timely avoidance of infection after cure may help to reduce the recurrence rate of HSP in children.