Polyarteritis Nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is an inflammatory condition that affects medium-sized arteries throughout the body, affecting blood flow to tissues and organs.

About Polyarteritis Nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa is a form of vasculitis (inflammatory vessel disease) that affects your medium-sized arteries. The resulting disruptions to circulation cause a wide array of symptoms in various organ systems.

Symptoms of Polyarteritis Nodosa

Symptoms of polyarteritis nodosa vary and result from bodily tissues not receiving adequate blood supply.

Symptoms of polyarteritis nodosa may include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Hypertension
  • Skin discoloration

Risk Factors for Polyarteritis Nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa is more common in certain patient populations.

Risk factors for polyarteritis nodosa may include:

  • Age: The condition is typically first diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 50.
  • Family history: Polyarteritis nodosa is more prevalent in people of European descent.
  • Sex: The condition is more common in male patients.

Treating Polyarteritis Nodosa at UT Medicine

Like all forms of vasculitis, corticosteroids like prednisone can be used to address the inflammation associated with polyarteritis nodosa. Your physician may prescribe an immunosuppressant medication such as cyclophosphamide.

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