Allergic granulomatous angiitis

Allergic Granulomatous Angiitis (AGA), also known as Churg-Strauss Syndrome or Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of small and medium-sized blood vessels (vasculitis) in individuals with a history of allergy or asthma.

Etiology

The exact cause of AGA is unknown. However, it is believed to be an autoimmune disorder, a condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own cells. Some researchers suggest that AGA may be triggered by an allergic reaction, but this theory has not been definitively proven.

Symptoms

Symptoms of AGA can vary widely, depending on which organs are affected. Common symptoms include fever, fatigue, weight loss, and general discomfort or ill feeling. If the lungs are affected, symptoms may include wheezing and shortness of breath. If the nervous system is affected, symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and weakness in various parts of the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of AGA is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and sometimes a biopsy of affected tissue. The American College of Rheumatology has established criteria for the diagnosis of AGA, which include asthma, eosinophilia (a high number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell), neuropathy (nerve damage), pulmonary infiltrates (abnormal substances in the lungs), sinusitis, and vasculitis.

Treatment

Treatment for AGA typically involves medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system. These may include corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs. In severe cases, chemotherapy may be used to control the disease.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with AGA varies. Some individuals may experience periods of remission, while others may have persistent or progressive disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the prognosis.

See also

• Vasculitis
• Autoimmune disease
• Asthma
• Allergy