Leukocytoclastic vasculitis

Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LCV) is an immune-mediated condition that results in inflammation of small blood vessels. While not formally considered an autoimmune disease, LCV is often triggered by an abnormal immune response.

Clusters of purpura (raised purple-red spots) form bilaterally on the body, causing low-grade fevers, malaise, weight loss, muscle pain, and joint pain. 

Rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), systemic lupus erythematosus, and Sjögren’s syndrome are known co-existing conditions. Malignancies have also been associated with LCV, but this occurs less frequently.

LCV is reported to occur equally in males and females but is more prevalent in adults. Studies have also found that the condition may also be induced by the use of certain medications or by a virus.

• Clinical maigestations of leukocytoclastic vasculitis, treatment, and outcome in patients with ulcerative colitis: A systematic review of the literature (2022)
• Leukocytoclastic vasculitis after COVID-19 vaccination (2021)
• Diagnosis and management of leukocytoclastic vasculitis (2021)
• Cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis secondary to COVID-19 infection: A case report (2020)