bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Overview of Vasculitis
Causes of Vasculitis
Usually, what triggers vasculitis is unknown. In these cases, the vasculitis is known as primary vasculitis. However, when infections, toxins, certain viruses (especially hepatitis viruses), and drugs trigger the disorder, it is known as secondary vasculitis. Vasculitis may result from cancer or another disorder that causes inflammation. Presumably, the inflammation occurs when the Overview of the Immune System mistakenly identifies blood vessels or parts of a blood vessel as foreign and attacks them. Cells of the immune system, which cause inflammation, surround and infiltrate the affected blood vessels, damaging them. The damaged blood vessels may become leaky, narrow, or clogged. As a result, blood flow to the tissues supplied by the damaged vessels is disrupted. The tissues deprived of blood (ischemic areas) can be permanently damaged or die. 