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Vasculitis refers to a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of blood vessels, which can affect vessels of any size from small capillaries to large arteries. The condition can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to infections, autoimmune diseases, or malignancies, leading to vessel wall damage and potential organ dysfunction.
The inflammatory process involves immune-mediated damage to vessel walls, often triggered by molecular mimicry, immune complex deposition, or direct cellular cytotoxicity. This results in endothelial dysfunction, vessel wall thickening, luminal narrowing, and potential thrombosis or hemorrhage, compromising blood flow to affected organs.
Diagnosis requires recognition of systemic inflammatory signs combined with organ-specific manifestations based on the vessels involved, such as skin lesions, renal dysfunction, or neurological deficits. Treatment approach depends on the specific type of vasculitis, severity, and organ involvement, typically involving immunosuppressive therapy to control inflammation and prevent irreversible organ damage.