Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare inflammatory condition that affects small and medium vessels, particularly those in the lungs and gastrointestinal tract.
About Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a form of vasculitis (inflammatory vessel disease) that affects blood flow to your lungs and gastrointestinal tract. The heart and kidneys can also be affected, but this is less common. As a result of this disrupted blood flow, these tissues can develop regions of inflammations comprised of white blood cells. These masses are called granulomas and they impair organ function. Patients with EGPA have a higher number of white blood cells called eosinophils that are associated with allergies.
Along with microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), EGPA is an anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis. In these diseases, vascular inflammation is caused by antibodies called ANCAs.
Symptoms of Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Symptoms of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis can vary depending on which organ systems are affected.
Symptoms of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis may include:
- Abdominal pain or blood in stool
- Chest pain
- Muscle and joint pain
- Rashes
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath
- Sinus infections
Risk Factors for Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis is more prevalent in certain patient populations.
Risk factors for eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis may include:
- Health history: Patients with EGPA usually have a history of allergies and/or asthma.
Treating Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis at UT Medicine
Like all forms of vasculitis, corticosteroids like prednisone can be used to address the inflammation associated with eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Your physician may prescribe an immunosuppressant medication such as rituximab, methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil.
