Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA)

What it is

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), formerly called Wegener's granulomatosis, is a rare disease. It is a type of vasculitis — inflammation of the blood vessels. The inflammation limits blood flow to important organs, damaging them.

• It can affect any organ, but mainly the sinuses, nose, trachea (windpipe), lungs and kidneys.

Who gets it

• The cause is unknown.
• It can occur at any age.
• Men and women are affected equally.
• It is more common in white people.

Symptoms

• joint pain;
• weakness and tiredness;
• cold symptoms, such as a runny nose that doesn't get better.

Diagnosis

Doctors use blood tests, chest X-rays and biopsies to diagnose GPA and rule out other causes.

Treatment

Early treatment is important. Most people improve with medicines that slow or stop the inflammation.

Sources

Based on the MedlinePlus health topic "Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis," National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.