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© Dirk Biddle
Diagnosing the vasculitides is a clinical challenge because they are syndromes, not specific diseases. Moreover, a variety of pathologic states may result in vasculitis - what ties them together is the end result of blood vessel inflammation. An accurate diagnosis of vasculitis conditions will usually involve the integration of data from many sources, including a combination of clinical signs and symptoms, surgical biopsy of the affected tissue or organ, imaging technologies, blood tests, and sometimes nerve tests.
Diagnosis and classification of vasculitis is based on the findings at biopsy of the affected tissue/organ, together with the clinical picture and the results of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA). Extent of disease is assessed by diagnostic imaging; creatinine - plasma , urea - plasma; ALP , AST , ALT , GGT . Activity of disease is evaluated by CRP or ESR , occasionally complement components C3 and C4 . Investigation for the underlying cause may include rheumatoid factor , cryoglobulin , protein electrophoresis, antinuclear antibodies ; hepatitis B virus testing ; hepatitis C virus testing (1).
The following information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference guide. The health information is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
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