Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA)/ANCA-associated vasculitis

Overview

Also called “ANCA-associated vasculitis,” MPA involves blood vessel inflammation that damages organ systems, nerves, skin, and joints. Often associated with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA), antibodies directed against certain constituents of white blood cells.

Common Symptoms

Shortness of breath, coughing up blood, malaise, fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, rashes, muscle and joint pain, abnormal sensations due to nerve damage, numbness, loss of strength, leg swelling, dark-colored urine, tiredness, weakness, sinus issues, and ear and eye problems.

Coexisting Diseases and Conditions

Kidney diseases, glomerulonephritis, palpable purpura, uveitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Risk Factors and Prevalence

MPA most commonly affects people in their 50s and 60s. While specific genes and immune system dysfunction are suspected of being involved, there is no known specific cause.

Sources

  1. Article Sources and Footnotes
    1. Articles. (n.d.). Cedars-Sinai. Retrieved July 12, 2021, from https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/articles.html

    2. Microscopic polyangiitis | Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD) – an NCATS Program. (n.d.). Https://Rarediseases.Info.Nih.Gov/Diseases/3652/Microscopic-Polyangiitis. Retrieved July 12, 2021, from https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/3652/microscopic-polyangiitis

    3. Microscopic Polyangiitis. (n.d.). Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center. Retrieved July 12, 2021, from https://www.hopkinsvasculitis.org/types-vasculitis/microscopic-polyangiitis/

    4. Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA): Symptoms, Causes, Tests and Treatment. (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved July 12, 2021, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/13285-microscopic-polyangiitis-mpa