Vasculitis

Overview

Restricted circulation can cause problems—ranging from mild to life-threatening—throughout the body. Depending on the type of vasculitis, the lungs, kidneys or other organs may be at risk of damage.

Types of Vasculitis

A few of the many types of vasculitis include:

Giant cell arteritis

This type of vasculitis affects the temporal artery (located on the side of the head) and is the most common form in adults older than 50.

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis

This disease causes not only inflamed vessels, but also lumps called granulomas in the sinuses, nose, throat, lungs and kidneys.

Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis

This disorder can affect the heart, lungs and kidneys along with other body systems.

Symptoms

The symptoms of vasculitis vary widely depending on the type and severity of the condition, and they can be temporary or chronic. Some symptoms include:

• Body aches
• Fever
• Hand or foot numbness
• Shortness of breath
• Red spots or ulcers on the skin

Causes

Vasculitis is considered an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body attacks its own tissues. Other causes include:

• Complication of rheumatic diseases, such as lupus
• Infection with hepatitis C
• Reactions to medicine

Vasculitis in general is rare. It cannot be cured, but many cases responds well to treatment.

Treatment

Treatment to help you control symptoms, preserve organ function and maintain the best possible quality of life.

Treatments for vasculitis include:

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Available in over-the-counter and prescription versions, these medications can help to relieve inflammation in mild cases of vasculitis.

Corticosteroids

Synthetic hormones, such as prednisone, prednisolone and methylprednisolone, help to reduce inflammation of the blood vessels and are a mainstay of vasculitis treatment.

Immune Suppressants

Drugs such as azathioprine, methotrexate and cyclophosphamide, either alone or in addition to corticosteroids, can help control inflammation of the blood vessels.

You may also require the care of physician specialists of the skin (dermatologists), eye (ophthalmologists), kidney (nephrologists), lung (pulmonologists) or other body systems. The referral network of IU Health ensures that you receive comprehensive care from highly qualified clinical experts.