Vasculitis

Vasculitis is the inflammation of blood vessels, causing poor blood flow to tissues (lungs, kidneys, skin) in the body. There are many forms of this rare condition, which vary widely in symptoms. The most common forms of vasculitis in children are:

• Kawasaki disease
• IgA Vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein)

Symptoms include:

• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Numbness or weakness in a hand or foot
• Red spots, lumps or sores on the skin

Treatments work to reduce inflammation and prevent damage. They include:

• Steroids (prednisone)
• Immune-suppressing drugs

In severe cases, surgery may be needed to:

• Repair damaged blood vessels
• Replace a damaged kidney with a transplant