Vasculitis is a group of conditions that involve inflammation of the blood vessels. The inflammation can cause damage to the blood vessels, which can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the location and severity of the inflammation.

There are many types of vasculitis, each with its own set of symptoms and potential complications. Some types of vasculitis affect only small blood vessels, while others can affect larger vessels.

Symptoms of vasculitis can include fever, fatigue, weight loss, joint pain, skin rashes or ulcers, and neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness. Complications of vasculitis can include organ damage, such as kidney or lung damage, or blood clots.

Treatment for vasculitis may involve medications to reduce inflammation, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants. In some cases, plasmapheresis (a procedure to remove harmful antibodies from the blood) or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy may also be used.

The prognosis for vasculitis depends on the specific type and severity of the condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications and manage symptoms. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional if any symptoms of vasculitis are present or if there are concerns about potential complications.

The exact cause of vasculitis isn't fully understood. Some types are related to a person's genetic makeup. Others result from the immune system attacking blood vessel cells by mistake. Possible triggers for this immune system reaction include:

• Infections, such as hepatitis B and hepatitis C
• Blood cancers
• Immune system diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and scleroderma
• Reactions to certain drugs

Treatment focuses on controlling the inflammation and managing any underlying conditions that may be triggering the vasculitis.

Medications

A corticosteroid drug, such as prednisone, is the most common type of drug prescribed to control the inflammation associated with vasculitis.

Side effects of corticosteroids can be severe, especially if you take them for a long time. Possible side effects include weight gain, diabetes and weakened bones. If a corticosteroid is needed for long-term therapy, you'll likely receive the lowest dose possible.

Other medications may be prescribed with corticosteroids to control the inflammation so that the dosage of corticosteroids can be tapered more quickly. The medication used depends on the type of vasculitis that is present. These medications may include methotrexate (Trexall), azathioprine (Imuran, Azasan), mycophenolate (CellCept), cyclophosphamide, tocilizumab (Actemra) or rituximab (Rituxan).

The specific medications that you'll need depend on the type and severity of vasculitis you have, which organs are involved, and any other medical problems that you have.

Surgery

Sometimes, vasculitis causes an aneurysm — a bulge or ballooning in the wall of a blood vessel. This bulge may need surgery to reduce the risk of it rupturing. Blocked arteries also may require surgical treatment to restore blood flow to the affected area.