Polyarteritis Nodosa

Evidence: Unconfirmed

Names

PAN
Classic polyarteritis nodosa
c-PAN
Periarteritis nodosa
Periarteritis
Polyarteritis nodosa
Polyarteritis

Description

Polyarteritis nodosa is an autoimmune disease that causes damage, weakness, and swelling to arteries. Small and medium-sized arteritis are affected by this disease. The autoimmune response that causes PAN is commonly triggered by drugs, vaccines, and both viral and bacterial infections. PAN is a multisystem disorder, so any organ in the body can be affected. Typically, the skin, heart, peripheral nervous system, kidneys, joints, eyes, and gastrointestinal system are affected. Common symptoms include feelings of malaise, pain, and skin irritation. There is no cure for PAN, but there are treatments to help with symptoms and disease progression. Outcomes vary depending on symptoms and disease severity, and relapses are possible. If left untreated, some complications may be fatal.