Vasculitis

Question 1

What is vasculitis?

Answer 1

Inflammation of blood vessel walls, often starting in post-capillary venules.

Question 2

What is the underlying pathogenesis of vasculitis?

Answer 2

Immune-mediated inflammation of blood vessels, which may be primary or secondary to infections, drugs, or systemic diseases.

Question 3

What is the main mechanism of vasculitis?

Answer 3

Immune complex–mediated inflammation leading to fibrinoid necrosis of blood vessels.

Question 4

What are common triggers of vasculitis?

Answer 4

Infections, drugs, autoimmune disorders, neoplasia, and other causes.

Question 5

How do skin lesions in vasculitis typically present?

Answer 5

As palpable purpura that do not blanch, which may also be bullous, annular, or urticarial.

Question 6

Which areas are commonly affected by vasculitic skin lesions?

Answer 6

Lower legs and acral sites such as ear lobes.

Question 7

What complications can occur in severe vasculitis?

Answer 7

Ulceration and systemic involvement, especially if lesions are above the waist.

Question 8

What is the main approach to treating vasculitis?

Answer 8

Treat the underlying cause, such as infection, drug reaction, or autoimmune disease.

Question 9

What baseline investigations should be done to assess systemic involvement?

Answer 9

Urine dipstick to check for renal involvement and other relevant systemic work-up.

Question 10

Who should manage severe or systemic vasculitis?

Answer 10

Referral to a specialist (dermatologist or rheumatologist) is recommended.