Jornal de Vasculite

Vasculitis and Organ Involvement: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Christopher Paul*

Vasculitis is a heterogeneous group of autoimmune disorders characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. These diseases often pose diagnostic challenges due to their diverse clinical presentations and the potential involvement of various organs. This comprehensive review explores the different types of vasculitis, their pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and the organs most commonly affected. A deep understanding of the intricate relationship between vasculitis and organ involvement is vital for accurate diagnosis and optimal patient management. Vasculitis comprises a broad spectrum of diseases categorized based on vessel size and the location of inflammation. The main classifications include Diseases like microscopic polyangiitis and granulomatosis with polyangiitis predominantly affect small blood vessels, leading to kidney and lung involvement. Conditions such as polyarteritis nodosa and Kawasaki disease target medium-sized arteries, often affecting the skin, nerves, and gastrointestinal tract. Giant cell arteritis and Takayasu arteritis primarily impact large arteries, causing symptoms related to vascular insufficiency in the head and arms. Conditions like Henoch-Schönlein purpura and cryoglobulinemic vasculitis involve immune complex deposition, affecting various organs. The pathogenesis of vasculitis involves immune dysregulation, which triggers inflammation within blood vessel walls.