Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels leading to obstruction of blood flow and end organ damage 

 

Vasculitis is suspected if one or more of these symptoms are present 

• Symptoms in multiple organ systems 

• Unexplained fever,  weight loss or malaise 

• Muscle pain or weakness 

• Rashes over body with fever or joint pains 

• Redness of eyes, diagnosed as inflammation (scleritis/ uveitis) by an eye specialist 

• Gangrene or blackening of fingers or toes

• Bleeding from nose or recurrent oral or genital ulcers with one or more of above-mentioned symptoms 

 

Why treat Vasculitis early?

• Relief in symptoms and prevention of disease progression 

• Improve fatigue and quality of life

• Untreated vasculitis can lead to permanent organ damage (kidney failure, heart failure, loss of vision etc.) and sometimes can be life threatening

 

Which doctor to consult for Vasculitis treatment?

A Rheumatologist is the best specialist for management of Vasculitis. As vasculitis are multisystem diseases, Rheumatologists are the only doctors trained in monitoring and treating the effects on vasculitis on different organ systems. Rheumatologist specialists are able to diagnose and manage Vasculitis best, as they have experience in diagnosing and treating this rare disease.  

 

How is Vasculitis treated?

Treatment of vasculitis depends on the severity and extent of organ involvement. Steroids are universally used in treatment of vasculitis. However, steroids alone are usually insufficient and long-term treatment with other immunosuppressants or biologics is needed. Your Rheumatologist will discuss these treatment options with you and prepare an individualized treatment plan based on your disease severity and general fitness. This disease requires long-term monitoring under a Rheumatology specialist’s guidance to prevent disease progression.