Clinical Efficacy and Gut Microbiota Profiling by 16S rRNA Sequencing in Children with Henoch-Schonlein Purpura Treated with Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine

Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is the most common systemic vasculitis in children, and recent evidence suggests that gut microbiota may play a role in its pathogenesis. This project investigated the gut microbiota profiles of HSP patients and healthy children using 16S rRNA gene sequencing to explore microbial alterations and treatment-related changes. Stool samples were collected from children with HSP receiving either integrated Chinese and Western medicine or conventional Western medicine, as well as from healthy controls. Fecal DNA was extracted and the V3-V4 regions of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified and sequenced on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Microbial diversity, community composition, and predicted functions were analyzed. The study found that HSP patients had reduced microbial diversity and altered composition compared to controls. Treatment with integrated medicine led to more pronounced microbiota restoration compared to Western medicine alone. These findings provide insight into microbiota-targeted strategies for managing pediatric vasculitis.