Arteritis nodosa is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of medium-sized arteries, specifically those in the kidneys and digestive tract. The spelling of this term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Arteritis" is pronounced ɑr.təˈraɪ.tɪs, with stress on the second syllable, and "nodosa" is pronounced noʊˈdoʊ.sə, with stress on the first syllable. The term is commonly abbreviated as PAN (polyarteritis nodosa) and requires proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
Arteritis nodosa, also known as polyarteritis nodosa (PAN), is a rare autoimmune disease that primarily affects the medium-sized arteries, causing inflammation and damage to their walls. It is characterized by the formation of nodules or small nodular lesions within these arteries, leading to impaired blood flow and potentially affecting various organs and systems in the body.
The exact cause of arteritis nodosa is unknown, but it is believed to involve an abnormal immune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the arterial walls. This abnormal immune response can result in the formation of immune complexes and inflammation, which can lead to the destruction of the affected arteries and the development of aneurysms or blood clots.
Arteritis nodosa can affect multiple organs and systems, including the skin, muscles, joints, nerves, gastrointestinal tract, and kidneys. Common symptoms may include fever, fatigue, weight loss, muscle and joint pain, skin rashes, nerve damage, abdominal pain, and high blood pressure.
Diagnosis of arteritis nodosa often involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, blood tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a biopsy of affected tissues. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent further damage and complications.
Treatment typically involves a combination of immunosuppressive medications, such as corticosteroids and other immune-modulating drugs, to suppress the abnormal immune response and control inflammation. Additionally, supportive measures may be taken to manage symptoms and address complications arising in different organs or systems affected by the disease.
Regular medical follow-ups are essential to monitor the disease progression, adjust the treatment plan, and manage any potential complications of arteritis nodosa.
Periarteritis nodosa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "arteritis nodosa" is derived from two Greek words: "arteritis" and "nodosa".
"Arteritis" comes from the Greek word "artēria", meaning "artery", and the suffix "-itis", which denotes inflammation. Therefore, "arteritis" refers to inflammation of the arteries.
"Nodosa" originates from the Greek word "nodus", meaning "knot" or "swelling". The term is commonly used to describe a condition characterized by the development of nodules or small swellings.
Combining these two terms, "arteritis nodosa" refers to a specific type of vasculitis, which primarily affects the medium-sized arteries of the body. It is characterized by inflammation and the formation of nodules within the walls of the affected arteries, leading to restricted blood flow.