bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)
Introduction
Polyarteritis nodosa is a form of vasculitis involving inflammation of medium-sized arteries. Any organ can be affected but usually not the lungs. Polyarteritis nodosa can be rapidly fatal or develop gradually. Symptoms vary depending on which organ is affected. Biopsy of an affected organ or arteriography of the blood vessels can confirm the diagnosis. Prompt treatment with a corticosteroid, another drug that suppresses the immune system, or both is effective. (See also Overview of Vasculitis .) Polyarteritis nodosa most often develops during middle age, usually when people are in their 50s, but it can occur at any age. It is rare. The cause of polyarteritis nodosa is unknown, but it sometimes appears to be triggered by certain viral infections (such as Hepatitis B, Acute or in rare cases The kidneys, skin, nerves, joints, muscles, and digestive tract are most commonly affected. The liver and heart are less often affected. 