Treatment Options For Vasculitis

Underlying Condition Treatment

It is believed certain conditions may trigger vasculitis in some patients. If these conditions are present, treatment for the underlying condition must occur along with the treatment for the type of vasculitis the patient has. For blood cancer, chemotherapy, radiation, and other cancer treatments are typically prescribed to kill the cancer cells and attempt to put the patient into remission. Hepatitis B and C may act as triggers to this condition. For hepatitis C, treatment may include antiviral medication, or in the most severe cases, a liver transplant. For hepatitis B, treatment may include interferon injections, antiviral medication, or a liver transplant. Autoimmune diseases may also increase a patient’s risk of developing vasculitis, and in these instances, the treatment regimens vary based on the condition but often include some anti-inflammatory drugs and immunosuppressants. If a medicine reaction caused vasculitis, stopping usage is generally sufficient to eliminate it as an underlying cause.

Keep reading to understand more about treating vasculitis.

Follow-Up Treatment & Care

Undergoing certain tests and following some specific lifestyle guidelines, referred to as follow-up treatment and care, are imperative for those who have vasculitis. Patients should follow their treatment plan exactly and make sure they are attending all of their doctor’s appointments. In between appointments, it is often advised patients check their blood pressure frequently at home. Getting routine vaccinations, eating a varied and healthy diet, acquiring a support system, and regular exercise are also important. When patients see their doctor, they may undergo blood tests, imaging, and urine testing. This is done to explore the progression of the disease and to determine if the patient’s current treatment regimen is effective or if changes need to be made. Imaging studies include angiography to look at the affected blood vessels, MRI, PET, general X-ray, ultrasound or CT scans. Urine tests can look for protein and red blood cells. Blood tests look at red blood cells (potentially part of a complete blood count), vasculitis-associated antibodies, and C-reactive protein (indicative of inflammation).

Continue to reveal if clinical trials might play a role in treating vasculitis.