All about vasculitis  causes of vasculitis symptoms of vasculitis diagnosis of vasculitis treatment for vasculitis |
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How is vasculitis diagnosed?
The types of vasculitis are distinguished by the type of blood vessel affected (aorta, large arteries, arterioles, capillaries and veins), the appearance of biopsy tissue of affected organs on light microscopy, and if necessary, with the help of immunohistochemistry (use of monoclonal antibodies against specific inflammatory protein markers). Other diagnostic
tools are the detection of circulating antibodies that are associated with forms of vasculitis. While these measurements have a low positive and negative predictive value (due to the high rates of both false positives and false negatives), they can direct the clinician to specific causes for vasculitis.
When vasculitis comes on slowly it is almost inevitable that correct diagnosis is delayed, as its early symptoms closely resemble influenza or other infections or illnesses. Routine blood tests are also rarely very abnormal early on. Anaemia is common, and there may be signs that suggest infection or inflammation. In some types of severe vasculitis, ANCA tests (described below) may help, although they do not prove the diagnosis on their own. Examination of a sample from an affected part of the body under the microscope is often required to confirm the diagnosis. Kidney biopsies are particularly helpful if there are signs of kidney involvement. Special x-rays (angiograms) can sometimes diagnose vasculitis affecting large blood vessels. |
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More information on vasculitis
What is vasculitis? - Vasculitis is an inflammation of the blood vessels that can affect any blood vessel in any part of the body.
What causes vasculitis? - For many forms of vasculitis, the cause is unknown. For some types, however, infections may be the cause.
What're the symptoms of vasculitis? - General symptoms of vasculitis include fever, achiness, arthritis pain, appetite and weight loss, and low energy.
How is vasculitis diagnosed? - The types of vasculitis are distinguished by the type of blood vessel affected, the appearance of biopsy tissue of affected organs on light microscopy.
What's the treatment for vasculitis? - The goal of te treatment for vasculitis is to decrease the immune system's production of antibodies. |
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