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Allergic vasculitis

Definition

Allergic vasculitis is an extreme reaction to a drug, infection, or foreign substance that leads to inflammation and damage to blood vessels of the skin.

Alternative Names

Vasculitis - allergic; Hypersensitivity vasculitis; Cutaneous leukocytoclastic vasculitis

Causes

Allergic vasculitis is caused by an allergic reaction to a drug or other foreign substance. Most patients are older than 15 years.

Even with a thorough history, the cause of this condition cannot be identified.

Symptoms

Purple-colored spots and patches, which get pale when pressure is placed on them (purpura)
Skin lesions usually located on the legs, buttocks, or trunk
Blisters on the skin
Hives (urticaria), may last longer than 24 hours
Open sores with dead tissue (necrotic ulcers)

Exams and Tests

The diagnosis is based on your symptoms and how the skin looks after you take a certain medicine or are exposed to a foreign substance (antigen).

Results from an ESR test may be high. Skin biopsy shows inflammation of the blood vessels.

Treatment

This version of the Encyclopedia has no treatment information. Please discuss any and all treatment options for your condition with your healthcare professional.

Outlook (Prognosis)

Allergic vasculitis usually goes away over time. On occasion, people will have repeated episodes.

Possible Complications

Permanent damage to the blood vessels or skin with scarring
Inflammation of the blood vessels affects the internal organs

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of allergic vasculitis.

Prevention

Avoid exposure to medications to which you have known allergies.

References

Stone JH. Immune complex-mediated small vessel vasculitis. In: Firestein GS, Budd RC, Harris Jr. ED, McInnes IB, Ruddy S, eds. Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: W.B. Saunders Company; 2008: chap 85.

Review Date: 5/31/2009
Reviewed By: Mark James Borigini, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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