Question
How is pediatric allergic purpura diagnosed? What tests are needed?
Answer
Firstly, a blood test is necessary to understand the status of the immune system, including the subsets of T cells and B cells as well as the levels of immunoglobulins. If an allergy is suspected, allergen testing may also be conducted, but this is not a routine test. Next, urine will be tested to observe if kidney function has been impaired. Some parents may be overly concerned about kidney function and may check urine too frequently, but this is unnecessary. Generally speaking, during the acute phase, urine should be checked once a week, and during the transitional phase, once a month is sufficient, without the need for daily checks. This is similar to measuring a child’s height; it doesn’t require daily measurements, just periodic ones.