Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare inflammatory condition that affects small and medium vessels, particularly those in the ears, nose, throat, lungs, and kidneys.
About Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a form of vasculitis (inflammatory vessel disease) that affects blood flow to your ears, nose, throat, lungs, and kidneys. As a result of this disrupted blood flow, these tissues can develop regions of inflammations called granulomas that impair organ function.
Along with microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), GPA is an anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis. In these diseases, vascular inflammation is caused by antibodies called ANCAs.
Symptoms of Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Symptoms of granulomatosis with polyangiitis can vary depending on which organ systems are affected.
Symptoms of granulomatosis with polyangiitis may include:
- Blood in urine
- Coughing or wheezing
- Drainage or stuffiness from the nose
- Ear inflammation and hearing difficulty
- Eye inflammation and vision difficulty
- Fever
- Joint pain
- Sinus infections
Risk Factors for Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is more prevalent in certain patient populations.
Risk factors for granulomatosis with polyangiitis may include:
- Age: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis most commonly occurs in those between the ages of 40 and 65.
- Health history: Infections can lead to granulomas.
Treating Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis at UT Medicine
Like all forms of vasculitis, corticosteroids like prednisone can be used to address the inflammation associated with granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Your physician may prescribe an immunosuppressant medication such as rituximab, methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil.
