What is Vasculitis?
Vasculitis is a group of conditions that cause inflammation of the blood vessels. The inflammation can affect small, medium, or large blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the skin and other organs. When the skin is involved, vasculitis may cause rashes, purple spots, ulcers, or painful nodules. Depending on the type, it may affect only the skin or involve other parts of the body.
Vasculitis is not contagious.
Common Types
* Cutaneous Small Vessel Vasculitis (Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis)
* IgA Vasculitis (Henoch–Schönlein Purpura)
* Urticarial Vasculitis
* Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)
* ANCA-Associated Vasculitis
* Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis
* Behçet’s Disease (vasculitic disorder)
Common Causes
Vasculitis may occur due to:
* Autoimmune diseases
* Infections
* Certain medications
* Allergic reactions
* Connective tissue disorders
* Blood disorders
* In some cases, no specific cause is identified (idiopathic)
Symptoms
* Red or purple spots on the skin (purpura)
* Small raised rashes
* Painful skin nodules
* Skin ulcers
* Blisters
* Swelling of the legs
* Fever, fatigue, or joint pain (in some cases)
* Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected
Commonly Affected Areas
* Lower legs
* Feet
* Ankles
* Buttocks
* Arms
* Hands
Although the skin is commonly involved, vasculitis may also affect the kidneys, joints, nerves, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract.
Who is at Risk?
* Adults of any age
* People with autoimmune diseases
* Individuals with chronic infections
* Those taking certain medications
* People with a family history of autoimmune disorders
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a detailed medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Additional investigations such as a skin biopsy, blood tests, urine analysis, or imaging studies may be recommended to determine the type of vasculitis and assess whether internal organs are involved.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent vasculitis. However, the following may help reduce the risk of complications:
* Manage underlying medical conditions.
* Avoid medications that have previously caused allergic reactions, if advised by your doctor.
* Attend regular medical follow-up if you have an autoimmune disease.
* Seek medical attention promptly if new symptoms develop.
When to See a Dermatologist
Consult a dermatologist if you develop persistent purple or red spots on the skin, painful rashes, ulcers, blisters, or unexplained skin lesions, especially if they are associated with fever, joint pain, abdominal pain, blood in the urine, or other systemic symptoms. Early diagnosis is important to identify the underlying cause and prevent complications.
