Hypersensitivity Vasculitis Treatment
Hypersensitivity vasculitis is a form of vasculitis, a condition which results in inflammation of the blood vessels. While hypersensitivity vasculitis can occur as a result of certain drugs or infections, its exact causes are often unknown.
Symptoms of Hypersensitivity Vasculitis
In order to be diagnosed with hypersensitivity vasculitis, patients must meet the following criteria:
- Red spots on the skin
- Biopsy of the skin rash that reveals white blood cells surrounding a vessel
- Joint or muscle pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Over 16 years of age
- Drug usage before symptoms appeared
In rare cases of hypersensitivity vasculitis, kidney inflammation may also be an indicator of the condition. Patients experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms should seek medical attention in order to receive treatment and minimize complications.
Treatment of Hypersensitivity Vasculitis
Treatment for hypersensitivity vasculitis varies based on the seriousness of the condition and general health of the patient. Those cases of hypersensitivity vasculitis caused by drug usage can often be remedied by simply discontinuing usage of that drug. Cases of hypersensitivity vasculitis that were caused by infection often go away once the underlying infection has been addressed. Corticosteroids and painkillers may also be prescribed to relieve symptoms.