Vasculitis
Vasculitis comprises a spectrum of rare diseases characterized by inflammation affecting blood vessels of various sizes. Among the diverse types are giant cell arteritis (GCA), Kawasaki disease, microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA or Churg-Strauss), and Behçet's, each posing unique challenges to patients.
Vasculitis disrupts blood flow to vital organs such as the lungs, kidneys, skin, eyes, and nerves, with individuals experiencing intermittent or recurrent episodes throughout their lives. While some forms are autoimmune in nature, others may result from drug reactions, cancer, or viral infections like hepatitis B or C.
What are the common symptoms of vasculitis?
Signs of vasculitis encompass a range of manifestations, including skin rashes resembling red spots (purpura), nodules, or ulcers, along with headaches accompanied by visual disturbances, respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath and coughing, and sensory or motor deficits in the extremities.
Joint pain, fatigue, and nasal or sinus issues may also arise. Notably, renal involvement can occur with varying degrees of symptomatology, necessitating vigilant monitoring for subtle signs of kidney dysfunction.
What are the treatments for vasculitis?
Management of vasculitis revolves around controlling inflammation and preserving organ function. Glucocorticoids like prednisone are commonly employed to quell inflammation, while immunosuppressants such as methotrexate or azathioprine may be used in less severe cases.
Targeted biologic therapies like rituximab, tocilizumab, or mepolizumab show promise in specific vasculitis subtypes. Cyclophosphamide is reserved for severe, life-threatening diseases.
Additional interventions, including plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulin, may be necessary in critical situations. Surgical intervention may be warranted to repair damaged blood vessels or organs in select cases.
How to live with vasculitis?
Management of vasculitis focuses on preventing irreversible organ damage and addressing associated symptoms like fatigue, arthritis, or sinus problems. Close monitoring for medication side effects, particularly from glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants, is essential, necessitating collaboration with a rheumatologist.
Patients on immunosuppressive therapy must adopt measures to minimize infection risk. Depending on the type and extent of vasculitis, multidisciplinary care involving specialists such as ophthalmologists, dermatologists, otolaryngologists, neurologists, nephrologists, or pulmonologists may be necessary.
With appropriate treatment and comprehensive care, individuals with vasculitis can achieve favorable outcomes and lead fulfilling lives.
About Dr. Shalene Badhan
When it comes to managing rheumatologic conditions, empathy is as crucial as expertise. Dr. Shalene Badhan, our lead Rheumatologist and an Internal Medicine specialist, embodies both. Having been diagnosed with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis herself, Dr. Badhan brings a unique perspective to her practice, combining professional excellence with personal insight. Her journey through diagnosis, treatment, and daily management of autoimmune diseases allows her to connect with her patients on a profound level, offering not just medical advice but also understanding and solidarity.
