Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a disorder that causes blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis), which can lead to organ damage. The kidneys, lungs, nerves, skin, and joints are the most commonly affected areas of the body. MPA is diagnosed in people of all ages, all ethnicities, and both genders. The cause of this disorder is unknown.

• Skin-Rash
• Lungs-cough, breathing problems, spitting up blood
• Gastrointestinal-bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract, abdominal pain
• Brain/neurological-tingling, pain, weakness, loss of sensation, seizures
• Musculoskeletal-joint pain, muscle pain

The treatment of MPA is dependent on the extent of the disease, rate of progression, and the degree of inflammation. The goal of treatment is to stop organ damage that occurs as a result of MPA and involves use of medications that suppress the immune system. Treatment is typically carried out in three phases:

• Remission induction using prednisone and cyclophosphamide. This phase usually lasts between 4 and 6 months.
• Remission maintenance using prednisone and replacing cyclophosphamide with other medications such as methotrexate and azathioprine. This phases usually lasts between 12 and 24 months.
• Treatment of relapse utilizing medications from phase one or other therapies such as intravenous immunoglobulin for resistant cases.