What is microscopic polyangiitis?
microscopic polyangiitis is a rare type of autoimmune disease. Problems occur when the immune system triggers inflammation in small blood vessels throughout the body, leading to poor blood circulation and rupture. This disease can affect joints, skin, kidneys, lungs and other vital organs, sometimes to create life -threatening complications. People who have microscopic polyangiitis generally have to undergo several laps of immunosuppressive therapy to alleviate symptoms and prevent future damage to organs.
The exact causes of microscopic polyangiitis are not known. The immune system begins to attack healthy blood cells and tissues of blood vessels as if they were dangerous pathogens. The resulting inflammation and swelling cause the weakening of the blood vessels, stretched and very fragile. The organs are unable to receive stable supply of fresh blood and nutrients from damaged blood vessels, which can lead to a number of health problems. Microscopic polyangiitis can affect the age of age but is the most common in Star patientsHel 50 years.
symptoms of microscopic polyangiitis may vary depending on which parts of the body are affected and to what extent. Most people with disease experience generalized symptoms of weakness, muscle fatigue, loss of appetite and frequent fever. It is also possible to experience weakening joint pain and widespread skin rashes. If the lungs are involved, one can have shortness of breath, extreme fatigue during physical activity and persistent wet or bloody cough. There may be other serious complications if the blood vessels that feed the kidneys are seriously damaged.
To confirm microscopic polyangiitis and exclusion of other potential causes of symptoms, a number of diagnostic tests are required. Doctors test blood and urine samples to check abnormal levels of specific types of white blood cells, proteins, and antibodies. X -ray and computer scanning of tomography are used to determine the extent of damagejoints and organs. Blood vessel biopsy can also be considered to confirm the presence of inflammation.
Most people who have microscopic polyangiitis receive corticosteroids such as prednisone to combat blood vessel inflammation. They are also started on the course of immunosuppressive drugs that slow or block the activity of the immune system. Depending on the severity and nature of symptoms, the patient may need to treat for one year or more. This disease can cause recurring health problems even after a successful round of treatment, so patients are recommended that they regularly encounter their doctors for the rest of their lives in the hope of identifying new problems as soon as possible.