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VASCULITIS
Vasculitis refers to a group of inflammatory disorders that involve inflammation of the blood vessels. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the blood vessel walls, leading to swelling, narrowing, and possible blockage of the vessels. The impaired blood flow can damage tissues and organs supplied by the affected blood vessels.
There are several types of vasculitis, classified based on the size of the blood vessels affected and the specific characteristics of the inflammation. Some common types of vasculitis include:
- Giant Cell Arteritis (Temporal Arteritis): This type primarily affects medium and large arteries, especially those in the head, particularly the temporal arteries. It is more common in older adults and can lead to headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain, vision problems, and, in severe cases, blindness.
- Takayasu Arteritis: This type primarily affects the aorta and its branches. It is more common in young women and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, muscle pain, joint pain, and unequal blood pressure in the arms.
- Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN): This type typically affects medium-sized arteries and can involve multiple organs. PAN can cause fever, weight loss, skin rashes, nerve damage, abdominal pain, and kidney problems.
- Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA, formerly Wegener’s granulomatosis): This type involves small and medium-sized blood vessels and commonly affects the respiratory tract and kidneys. Symptoms may include sinusitis, lung nodules, cough, kidney damage, and generalized inflammation.
- Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA, formerly Churg-Strauss syndrome): This type often involves small to medium-sized blood vessels and is characterized by asthma, high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell), and inflammation in various organs.
- Microscopic Polyangiitis: This type affects small blood vessels, and it can involve the kidneys, lungs, and skin. It can cause glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation), lung problems, and skin lesions.
The exact cause of vasculitis is often not clear, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. In some cases, vasculitis can be triggered by infections, certain medications, or other underlying conditions.
Symptoms of vasculitis can vary widely depending on the type and the organs involved. Common general symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and muscle and joint pain. Specific symptoms will depend on the affected organs, such as respiratory symptoms in lung involvement, kidney problems, or skin rashes.
Diagnosis and treatment of vasculitis involve a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a biopsy of affected tissues. Treatment aims to control inflammation, suppress the immune system, and prevent organ damage. Corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive medications are often used.
Vasculitis is a complex and potentially serious condition, so it requires the expertise of rheumatologists and other specialists for proper management. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital to improve outcomes and minimize complications.