The Link - June 2025

IgA vasculitis (IgAV), formerly known as Henoch-Schonlein purpura, is the most common small vessel vasculitis in children. In fact, it is the single most common vasculitis that pediatricians feel comfortable diagnosing and managing. While no diagnostic criteria are used in the diagnosis of IgAV, most patients will have the classic purpuric rash, plus at least one other typical symptom such as arthralgia, abdominal pain, or renal involvement. In the acute phase, the best treatment is supportive care. However, providers should be aware of both the possible acute and long-term complications.

Children and adolescents are especially vulnerable to the mental health consequences of climate change, facing both immediate physiological stress and long-term psychological challenges. Recognizing and addressing these risks is essential for supporting healthy development and resilience in the next generation.

The mental health effects of climate change intersect with, and compound, other challenges, such as poverty, racism, housing insecurity and limited access to care. Physicians have a professional and ethical responsibility to recognize these risks, provide compassionate care, and help young patients process their fears and emotions in a safe space. By doing so, they can foster resilience, offer hope, and connect families with the resources and support they need.

The advances in pediatric health care over the last two decades have been remarkable, from advances in critical care to the development of new clinical services and board certifications in Pediatric Hospital Medicine and Hospice & Palliative Medicine. Children and families are able to look with hope for speedier diagnoses (think genome and exome sequencing) and personalized care that is accessible across care environments in the hospital, at home, or through subspecialty clinics.