Wegener's granulomatosis (VEG-eh-nerz gran-u-loe-muh-TOE-sis) is an uncommon disorder that causes inflammation of your blood vessels. This inflammation restricts blood flow to various organs. Wegener's granulomatosis, which is also called granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), often affects your kidneys, lungs and upper respiratory tract. The restricted blood flow to these organs can damage them. Wegener's can affect other organs, but this isn't as common, and generally isn't as serious.
Diagnosis: Whenever possible, it is important to confirm the diagnosis of Wegener’s by biopsying an involved organ and finding the pathologic features of this disease under the microscope. Because many diseases may mimic Wegener’s (and vice versa), before starting a treatment regimen it is essential to be as certain of the diagnosis as possible.
Medications such as prednisone help suppress the immune system and treat the early signs and symptoms of Wegener's granulomatosis.
Most people require another immunosuppressive drug, such as cyclophosphamide, azathioprine or methotrexate, to counteract the body's immune reaction.
Statistics: Twenty-five patients (16 females and 9 males) were found eligible for inclusion in the study. The mean age and duration of symptoms at presentation were 33.5 years and 5.5 months, respectively. Two patients had limited WG. Twenty-two patients with generalized WG were treated with standard regimen comprising oral prednisolone (1 mg/kg/day) and oral cyclophosphamide (2 mg/kg/day). Cyclophosphamide was continued for at least one year after the patient attained remission.