Systemic Vasculitis Treatment in Metro Atlanta

Overview of Systemic Vasculitis

Systemic vasculitis refers to a group of rare diseases characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, which can lead to damage in various organs and tissues throughout the body. The inflammation can cause the walls of the blood vessels to thicken, reducing the width of the passageway through the vessel and restricting blood flow. Early diagnosis and treatment at Arthritis and Rheumatology of Georgia (ARG) are crucial for managing symptoms and preventing serious complications.

Symptoms of Systemic Vasculitis

• General Symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Night sweats
• Organ-Specific Symptoms:
  • Skin: Rashes, ulcers, and purpura (purple spots).
  • Lungs: Shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.
  • Kidneys: Blood in the urine, high blood pressure, and kidney failure.
  • Nervous System: Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the limbs.
  • Gastrointestinal Tract: Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloody stools.

Types of Systemic Vasculitis

• Giant Cell Arteritis: Affects the large arteries, often the temporal arteries.
• Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener’s Granulomatosis): Affects the small to medium-sized blood vessels in the lungs, kidneys, and upper respiratory tract.
• Microscopic Polyangiitis: Affects small blood vessels, often in the kidneys and lungs.
• Polyarteritis Nodosa: Affects medium-sized arteries, often involving the skin, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract.
• Takayasu’s Arteritis: Affects the large arteries, including the aorta and its main branches.

Diagnosis of Systemic Vasculitis

• Medical History and Physical Examination: Conducted by a rheumatologist at Arthritis and Rheumatology of Georgia to assess symptoms and check for signs of inflammation and organ involvement.
• Blood Tests:
  • Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-reactive Protein (CRP): Markers of inflammation.
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for anemia and signs of infection.
  • Autoantibodies: Such as antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) for specific types of vasculitis.
• Imaging Tests:
  • X-rays: To assess lung involvement.
  • MRI or CT Scan: To visualize inflammation and damage in affected organs.
  • Angiography: To visualize the blood vessels and detect narrowing or blockages.
• Biopsy: A small sample of affected tissue (e.g., skin, kidney, or lung) is taken to look for signs of vasculitis.

Treatment Options for Systemic Vasculitis

• Medications:
  • Corticosteroids: High doses of corticosteroids are the primary treatment to reduce inflammation and control acute flare-ups.
  • Immunosuppressive Drugs: Such as methotrexate, azathioprine, or cyclophosphamide to control the immune system.
  • Biologic Agents: Such as rituximab or tocilizumab to target specific pathways in the immune response.
• Therapies:
  • Physical Therapy: Exercises to improve muscle strength and flexibility.
  • Occupational Therapy: Techniques to perform daily activities safely and efficiently.
• Lifestyle Changes:
  • Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet to support overall health.
  • Regular Exercise: Engaging in low-impact exercises to maintain strength and mobility.
  • Stress Management: Techniques such as mindfulness and relaxation exercises.

Living with Systemic Vasculitis

• Symptom Management: Using medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups.
• Regular Check-Ups: Keeping up with appointments to monitor disease progression and treatment efficacy.
• Support Systems: Seeking support from family, friends, or support groups to manage the emotional impact of living with a chronic disease.
• Education: Learning about the condition and staying informed about new treatments and management strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions | Systemic Vasculitis

What causes systemic vasculitis?
The exact cause of systemic vasculitis is unknown, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response that leads to inflammation of the blood vessels.

Is systemic vasculitis hereditary?
There is no clear evidence that systemic vasculitis is hereditary, though genetic factors may contribute to susceptibility.

Can systemic vasculitis be cured?
There is no cure for systemic vasculitis, but its symptoms can be managed effectively with a combination of treatments.

How is systemic vasculitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsy.

What lifestyle changes can help manage systemic vasculitis?
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, stress management, and avoiding smoking can all help manage symptoms and improve overall health.

How can Arthritis and Rheumatology of Georgia help with systemic vasculitis?
At Arthritis and Rheumatology of Georgia, we offer comprehensive care for systemic vasculitis, including diagnostic tests, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing management to reduce inflammation and improve quality of life.

Contact Arthritis and Rheumatology of Georgia

For comprehensive care for systemic vasculitis, schedule an appointment with Arthritis and Rheumatology of Georgia. Call us at 404-255-5956 or use our online contact form. We proudly serve patients in the metro Atlanta area and beyond, providing expert care and personalized treatment plans.