Systemic vasculitides. Part 1: Large, medium and variable vessel diseases

Authors

Sean M. Conte, The University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow
Peter R. Vale, The University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow

Publication Details

Conte, S. M., & Vale, P. R. (2020). Systemic vasculitides. Part 1: Large, medium and variable vessel diseases. Medicine Today, 21 (4), 33-38.

Abstract

Vasculitis, or inflammation of vessel walls, is common and consists of a diverse array of disease entities encompassing virtually all organ systems. As onset is typically subacute and nonspecific, affected patients usually first seek attention from primary care providers. Size and distribution of the affected vasculature dictate end-organ manifestations and preliminary screening tests. Complications may carry high morbidity and mortality; therefore, prompt recognition, specialist referral and institution of immunosuppressive therapy are crucial to obviate potentially poor outcomes.

Keywords

systemic vasculitides, vasculitis, prompt recognition, specialist referral, immunosuppressive therapy

Comments

This article originally published in Medicine Today.

Permission granted by Medicine Today for use in ResearchOnline@ND.

© Medicine Today 2020 (http://www.medicinetoday.com.au).

Link to Publisher Version (URL)

https://medicinetoday.com.au/2020/april/feature-article/systemic-vasculitides-part-1-large-medium-and-variable-vessel-diseases