A Spotlight on Drug-Induced Vasculitis

AbstractPurpose of ReviewDrug-induced vasculitis (DIV) is a rare form of vasculitis related to the use of various drugs. DIV primarily affects small to medium size vessels, but it can potentially involve vessels of any size. Differentiating between primary systemic vasculitis and DIV can be challenging; however, it is crucial, so that the offending agent can be discontinued promptly.Recent FindingsThe clinical phenotype of DIV is protean and depends on the size of the affected vessels. It ranges from arthralgias, to an isolated cutaneous rash, to severe single or multi-organ involvement. While withdrawal of the offending drug is the most important step in management, a significant number of patients require immunosuppressive therapy for varying periods of time.SummaryDIV can affect any vascular bed size, leading to protean vasculitic syndromes. Increased awareness among general practitioners, specialty, and  subspecialty physicians is crucial for early recognition, and withdrawal of drug for better outcomes.
Source: Current Rheumatology Reports - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: research