Microscopic Polyangiitis
Microscopic Polyangiitis Causes
The causes of the condition is unknown but some reports note that antibiotics or some infections may be the cause.
Microscopic Polyangiitis Definition
Microscopic polyangiitis is an autoimmune disease resulting from the inflammation of blood vessels causing damage to the organ system.
Microscopic Polyangiitis Diagnosis
Urine specimen is analyzed to check any development or progression that may show signs that the kidney or kidneys are affected. A tissue specimen from the affected organ may also be taken for biopsy. The patient undergoes laboratory tests to determine ANCA levels in the blood.
Microscopic Polyangiitis Symptoms and Signs
The disease affects different organs in the body and may generally cause fever and weight loss. The commonly affected organs include the kidneys, skin, lungs, and joints.
Microscopic Polyangiitis Treatment
The disease is typically treated with long term dosage of prednisone. Cytotoxic drugs such as cyclophosphamide or azathioprine are also used alternately or in combination with prednisone. With an acute condition, plasmapheresis may be on the patient to remove ANCA antibodies.