Hypersensitivity vasculitis
Hypersensitivity Vasculitis
Hypersensitivity vasculitis (pronunciation: hi-per-sen-si-tiv-ity vas-kyu-li-tis) is a condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels due to an adverse reaction to a drug, infection, or other foreign substance.
Etymology
The term "hypersensitivity vasculitis" is derived from three words: "hyper" meaning over, "sensitivity" indicating an exaggerated response, and "vasculitis" referring to inflammation of the blood vessels.
Definition
Hypersensitivity vasculitis, also known as allergic vasculitis, is a form of vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels) that occurs when the immune system attacks the blood vessels in response to a drug, infection, or other foreign substance. This can result in various symptoms, including skin rash, joint pain, and kidney problems.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of hypersensitivity vasculitis include a red or purple rash, often on the legs, joint pain, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, it can affect the kidneys, causing glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney's filtering units).
Causes
Hypersensitivity vasculitis is usually caused by a reaction to a drug or an infection. The most common drugs associated with this condition include antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and diuretics. Infections that can trigger hypersensitivity vasculitis include hepatitis B and hepatitis C.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of hypersensitivity vasculitis is based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. Additional tests, such as blood tests, urine tests, and a skin biopsy, may also be performed.
Treatment
Treatment for hypersensitivity vasculitis typically involves discontinuing the drug or treating the infection that caused the condition. In severe cases, medications such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs may be used to reduce inflammation and control symptoms.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hypersensitivity vasculitis
- Wikipedia's article - Hypersensitivity vasculitis
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