Polyarteritis nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa is a vasculitis of medium sized arterial vessels.
Usually red, sometimes tender, cutaneous nodules appear along the distribution of arteries. These lesions may produce infarction of the overlying skin.
Renal artery involvement is typical, as is an associated hypertension.
Arthritis may also be present.
Neurological signs are common.

Treatment:

• Treatment includes high dose systemic prednisone, as well as azathioprine or cyclophosphamide.

Back to Dermatology Glossary - P Index   |   Back to Dermatology Glossary Index