Vasculitis

Vasculitis is a group of autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation of blood vessels, which can damage organs such as the kidneys, lungs, skin, and nerves. At Premier Rheumatology in Boca Raton, FL and Queens, NY, board-certified rheumatologists diagnose and manage all major vasculitis subtypes — including ANCA-associated vasculitis (GPA, MPA, EGPA) — with corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and on-site biologic infusion therapy such as rituximab available in our Boca Raton office.

Vasculitis refers to a group of autoimmune conditions characterized by inflammation of blood vessels. This inflammation can affect vessels of different sizes and may interfere with blood flow to organs and tissues. Symptoms vary widely depending on which blood vessels and organs are involved.

Because vasculitis can be serious and affect multiple systems, early recognition and specialized rheumatologic care are important.

What Is Vasculitis?

Vasculitis is an autoimmune inflammatory condition in which the immune system targets blood vessel walls, leading to inflammation and potential vessel damage. Reduced blood flow may result in tissue or organ dysfunction.

Vasculitis is systemic and inflammatory rather than degenerative, and its presentation depends on the size and location of affected vessels.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of vasculitis may include:

• Fatigue or generalized weakness
• Fever without clear infection
• Joint or muscle pain
• Skin changes such as rashes or discoloration
• Numbness or tingling in the extremities
• Organ-specific symptoms depending on involvement

Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly.

What Causes Vasculitis?

The cause of vasculitis is not always known. Contributing factors may include:

• Autoimmune system activation
• Genetic predisposition
• Environmental triggers or infections

Some forms of vasculitis are associated with other autoimmune conditions.

How Is Vasculitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis requires a comprehensive evaluation, which may include:

• Detailed review of symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination
• Laboratory testing to assess inflammation and immune markers
• Imaging studies or specialized testing to evaluate blood vessels
• Tissue biopsy in select cases

Accurate diagnosis is essential for appropriate management.

Treatment Options for Vasculitis

Treatment depends on disease severity and organ involvement and may include:

• Medications to control inflammation and immune activity
• Advanced therapies for moderate to severe disease
• Infusion-based treatments when clinically indicated
• Ongoing monitoring for disease activity and complications

Management is tailored to individual needs and disease patterns.

When to See a Rheumatologist

Rheumatologic evaluation is appropriate if you experience:

• Unexplained systemic symptoms with inflammation
• Skin, nerve, or organ-related symptoms
• Abnormal blood tests suggesting vessel inflammation

Early assessment helps guide timely care.

Our Approach to Treating Vasculitis

Our approach emphasizes early diagnosis, personalized treatment planning, and close monitoring. We coordinate care to address systemic involvement and adjust therapy as disease activity changes.

For patients requiring advanced or infusion-based therapies, these treatments are provided in a controlled and supportive setting.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of vasculitis, scheduling a consultation allows for thorough evaluation and discussion of appropriate treatment options.