Vasculitis Flashcards
What is vasculitis?
Inflammation of the blood vessels, categorized based on the vessel size affected (small, medium, or large).
What are some key features of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura (HSP)?
Vessel size: Small
Features: Purpura (non-blanching rash), joint pain, abdominal pain, and renal involvement (IgA nephritis).
What is the main lab finding in Microscopic Polyangiitis?
p-ANCA (anti-MPO antibodies).
What are the characteristic symptoms of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis?
Nasal symptoms (nose bleeds, crusting)
Respiratory symptoms (cough, wheeze, haemoptysis)
Glomerulonephritis
Lab finding: c-ANCA (anti-PR3 antibodies).
What is the typical feature of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis?
Severe asthma, sinusitis, rhinitis, and raised eosinophils. It is often associated with p-ANCA.
What are the key features of Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)?
Vessel size: Medium
Features: Renal impairment, hypertension, tender skin nodules, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
What is a characteristic feature of Kawasaki Disease?
Persistent fever for over 5 days
Widespread erythematous rash
Strawberry tongue
Bilateral conjunctivitis
Complication: Coronary artery aneurysms.
What are the main features of Giant Cell Arteritis?
Vessel size: Large
Features: Unilateral headache, scalp tenderness, and vision loss. Raised ESR.
What is Takayasu’s Arteritis often called?
“Pulseless disease,” due to the narrowing or blockage of large vessels (mainly the aorta and its branches), which leads to reduced pulses.
What are common investigations for vasculitis?
Inflammatory markers: CRP and ESR
p-ANCA and c-ANCA for specific types
Imaging (CT/MRI angiography) for vascular involvement.
What is the first-line treatment for vasculitis?
Steroids (oral, intravenous, or inhaled depending on involvement) and immunosuppressants like cyclophosphamide or rituximab.
What is the typical management for Henoch-Schonlein Purpura (HSP)?
Supportive care (hydration, rest), analgesia, and monitoring for renal involvement. Steroids may be used, but their use is debated.
What is the main complication of Takayasu’s Arteritis?
Stenosis or occlusion of the aorta, leading to reduced blood flow and pulse loss in limbs, along with aneurysms.
How is Kawasaki disease treated?
With aspirin and IV immunoglobulins to reduce the risk of coronary artery aneurysms.
What are common systemic symptoms seen in patients with vasculitis?
Fatigue, fever, night sweats, weight loss, anorexia, and anaemia.
