What are the typical symptoms of microscopic polyangiitis?
Disease description:
My father previously had vasculitis and is doing much better now, but I've recently developed similar symptoms—fever, fatigue, and skin spots. I'd like to know what the typical symptoms of vasculitis are.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Tiesheng
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA), also known as microscopic polyarteritis, is a rare systemic small-vessel vasculitis that affects small blood vessels throughout the body. MPA can lead to damage in multiple organs, including the kidneys, lungs, skin, and nervous system. Typical symptoms include severe asthma or shortness of breath, hemoptysis (coughing up blood), renal failure, cutaneous purpura (small bleeding spots), arthralgia, myalgia, and neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness. Additionally, patients may experience systemic symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and weight loss. Because MPA can progress rapidly and involve multiple organs, timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressive agents and corticosteroids to control inflammation and suppress abnormal immune responses. Patients should work closely with their physicians for regular monitoring and treatment adjustments to manage symptoms and prevent potential complications.
