Key Points

• Vasculitis is a condition that involves inflammation in the blood vessels. Why vasculitis occurs isn't completely known.
• Vasculitis can affect any of the body's blood vessels. Complications depend on which blood vessels, organs, or other body systems are affected.
• When a blood vessel is inflamed, it can narrow or close off. This limits or prevents blood from getting through the vessel, which can lead to serious complications.
• There are many types of vasculitis, but overall the condition is rare. If you have vasculitis, the outlook depends on the type you have, which organs are affected, how quickly the condition worsens, and how severe the condition is.
• Vasculitis can affect people of all ages and races and both genders. Some types of vasculitis are more likely to affect certain groups than others.
• The signs and symptoms of vasculitis vary in type and severity. Signs and symptoms may be specific and affect a particular organ, or they may cause general aches, pains, and fatigue (tiredness).
• Your doctor will diagnose vasculitis based on your signs and symptoms, your medical history, a physical exam, and the results from various tests.
• Treatment for vasculitis will depend on the type of vasculitis you have, which organs are affected, and how severe the condition is. People who have severe vasculitis are treated with prescription medicines. Rarely, surgery may be needed. People who have mild vasculitis may find relief with over-the-counter pain medicines.
• You can't prevent vasculitis. However, treatment can help prevent or delay complications of the condition.
• If vasculitis is diagnosed early and responds well to treatment, the condition may go into remission. "Remission" means the condition isn't active, but it can come back, or "flare," at any time.
• Some cases of vasculitis are chronic (ongoing) and never go into remission. Long-term treatment with medicines often can control chronic cases, but there are no cures.
• While you're being treated for vasculitis, you'll need to see your doctor regularly. Talk to your doctor about any new symptoms and other changes in your health, including side effects of your medicines.