Vasculitis
Group of conditions causing inflammation of blood vessels. Prompt specialist diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent organ damage.
Last medically reviewed by Dr Leena Das: March 2026
Vasculitis refers to a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the blood vessels. This inflammation can narrow or block blood vessels, reducing blood flow to organs and tissues, or weaken vessel walls leading to aneurysms. Vasculitis can affect any organ and ranges from mild to life-threatening.
There are many types of vasculitis, classified by the size of blood vessels affected. Common types include giant cell arteritis (GCA), ANCA-associated vasculitis (granulomatosis with polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, microscopic polyangiitis), polyarteritis nodosa, and Behçet's disease.
Symptoms vary widely depending on the type and organs affected but may include general symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, and muscle aches, as well as organ-specific features such as headaches, visual disturbances, skin rashes, kidney problems, breathlessness, and nerve symptoms.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent organ damage. Dr Das provides comprehensive assessment including blood tests (ANCA, inflammatory markers, organ function tests), imaging, and sometimes tissue biopsy. Treatment typically involves corticosteroids to control inflammation rapidly, followed by steroid-sparing immunosuppressive medications for long-term management.
Symptoms
- •Fever and fatigue
- •Weight loss
- •Muscle and joint aches
- •Skin rashes or ulcers
- •Headaches and visual changes
- •Breathlessness
- •Blood in urine
- •Nerve symptoms (numbness, weakness)
Treatment Options
- ✓Corticosteroids
- ✓Immunosuppressive medications
- ✓Biologic therapies
- ✓Plasma exchange in severe cases
- ✓Regular organ monitoring
- ✓Cardiovascular risk management
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes vasculitis?
Most vasculitis is caused by the immune system attacking blood vessel walls. The exact trigger is often unknown, though infections, medications, and other autoimmune conditions can sometimes be involved.
Is vasculitis serious?
Vasculitis can range from mild to life-threatening depending on the type and organs affected. Prompt diagnosis and specialist treatment are essential. With modern therapy, most forms of vasculitis can be effectively controlled.
How is vasculitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves blood tests (including ANCA antibodies and inflammatory markers), imaging, and sometimes tissue biopsy. Dr Das will arrange the appropriate investigations based on your symptoms.
Expert Vasculitis Care
Book a private consultation with Dr Leena Das. Self-referral accepted — no GP referral needed.
Book Appointment — From £225