Types of Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of diseases characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. It occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissue, causing the walls of small and medium-sized vessels to swell and narrow. It often leads to cell and tissue damage. Symptoms vary according to the affected organs and can include fever, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, rash, and organ failure. Common types of vasculitis include Takayasu arteritis, giant cell arteritis, polyarteritis nodosa, and Kawasaki disease. Treatment for vasculitis depends on the type of disease, but often includes medications such as immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, and biologic therapies, as well as lifestyle management. With proper treatment, vasculitis can often be managed and the risk of serious complications can be minimized.