Hypersensitivity Vasculitis

Hypersensitivity vasculitis (HV) is an uncommon autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy blood vessels. This leads to inflammation and swelling, causing widespread tissue damage. It commonly affects the skin, but can also affect internal organs such as the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and lungs. Symptoms of HV include rash, joint pain and swelling, fever, weight loss, chest pain, and general malaise. Treatment is aimed at controlling inflammation and stopping the body’s auto-immune attack by using medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. Early diagnosis and treatment of HV are essential for disease management and long-term prognosis.