Polyarteritis Nodosa
(Diseases)
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN).
- What is Polyarteritis Nodosa?
- Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare disease caused by vasculitis, which leads to organ damage. The most commonly affected areas include:
- Kidneys: Kidney failure and high blood pressure associated with kidney involvement.
- Nervous system: Nerve damage in the arms or legs, which may cause numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation and movement due to involvement of specific nerve bundles. In the brain, damage may lead to strokes, seizures, or sudden changes in brain function.
- Abdominal organs: Pain in the intestines, liver, or pancreas, especially after meals, or even tissue death in an organ due to interrupted blood supply.
- Heart: Heart attack, as well as inflammation of the heart lining (pericarditis). Congestive heart failure may cause difficulty breathing as fluid backs up into the lungs.
Skin: Rash and skin nodules, including purpura (a type of rash caused by bleeding from damaged capillaries).
What are the symptoms of Polyarteritis Nodosa?
- Since blood vessels connect multiple organs, PAN can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:
- High blood pressure (a common symptom).
- Fatigue.
- Fever.
- Unintentional weight loss.
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Seizures, cognitive changes, numbness, tingling, weakness, slurred speech..
- Skin rash.
- Abdominal pain.
- Blood in stool.
- Shortness of breath.
Chest pain.
What are the causes of Polyarteritis Nodosa?
The exact cause of PAN is unknown. However, studies and laboratory evidence suggest that the immune system plays a major role by causing inflammation and damage to blood vessels and tissues. PAN is closely associated with Hepatitis B infection.
How is Polyarteritis Nodosa diagnosed?
- The doctor will take a medical history and perform a clinical examination. Additional tests may include as needed based on the condition:
- Blood and urine tests.
- X-rays.CT).
- Computed tomography (CT) scans.MR).
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
How is Polyarteritis Nodosa treated?
Treatment may involve several measures depending on the condition and typically includes immunosuppressive medications.
How can PolyarteritisBNodosa be prevented?
Most cases of PAN cannot be prevented. However, vaccination against Hepatitis B and avoiding activities that increase the risk of Hepatitis B infection may prevent PAN associated with Hepatitis B.
What are the complications of Polyarteritis Nodosa?
Complications usually depend on the organs affected by the disease and may include kidney failure, liver failure, stroke, gangrene, heart attack, and others.
When should you see a doctor?
It is advisable to see a doctor if you develop any symptoms of polyarteritis nodosa to obtain an accurate diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Polyarteritis Nodosa a common disease?
