Polyarteritis nodosa is a disorder of connective tissues. These are the structural proteins that form the skeleton for may organs and cells. Polyarteritis nodosa causes inflammation of small and medium arteries. This inflammation leads to narrowing of these blood vessels. This results in a decreased blood supply to tissues supplied by the affected blood vessels. the condition is more common in middle aged men. It is an autoimmune disorder.
Causes of Polyarteritis Nodosa
Polyarteritis nodosa is most likely an autoimmune disease. Hepatitis B and C viruses have been found in some people with this disorder. It has also been found following bacterial infections, viral infections, the use of certain drugs, including sulfa drugs, penicillin, gold, antithyroid drugs, and thiazide diuretics, vaccines, and HIV (AIDS).
Signs and Symptoms of Polyarteritis Nodosa
Symptoms vary depending on which organ is affected. If the blood vessels of the heart and lungs are affected, it can lead to chest pain and shortness of breath. Involvement of the gastrointestinal tract and liver can lead to abdominal discomfort and pain. When the kidneys are involved, blood might be found in the urine. The kidneys can become seriously damaged leading to renal failure. A red-purple patchy rash may develop on the skin. Joint pain and muscle weakness may develop. Numbness and tingling of the hands and feet develop when the peripheral nerves are damaged. Non-specific symptoms of fever, fatigue and weight loss also occur.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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