Definition
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| Allergic vasculitis is
hypersensitivity to a drug or foreign agent that leads to
inflammation and damage to blood vessels of the skin.
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Alternative Names
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| Vasculitis - allergic
hypersensitivity; Cutaneous Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis
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Causes
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| Vasculitis occurs because
of inflammation and damage to blood vessels. The inflammation
of allergic vasculitis is the result of an allergic reaction
to a drug or other foreign agent. |
Symptoms
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- skin lesions usually located on legs,
buttocks, or trunk
- palpable (able to be felt with the
fingers)
purpura
- multiple papules (small, solid, raised
skin areas)
- purpura (bleeding into the skin)
- blisters on the skin
- urticaria (hives), may last longer than
24 hours
- necrotic ulcers (open sores with dead
tissue)
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Exams and Tests
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The diagnosis is primarily
based on a history of skin lesions that develop after exposure
to medications or a foreign substance (antigen ) and the
pattern of symptoms.
- The
ESR (sed rate) may be elevated.
- Skin biopsy shows vasculitis
(inflammation of the blood vessels).
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Treatment
Treatment is aimed at reducing the inflammation, allowing the
natural healing process to occur. If possible, stop exposure
to the causative medication (or other antigen). Aspirin or
corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation of
the blood vessels. (DO NOT give aspirin to children except as
advised by the health care provider.) In severe cases,
treatment with corticosteroids may be necessary.
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Outlook (Prognosis)
Allergic vasculitis usually resolves in time.
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Possible Complications
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- permanent damage to the blood vessels or
skin with scarring
- vasculitis affecting the internal organs
(kidney, bone, and so on)
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When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call for an appointment with
your health care provider if symptoms indicate allergic
vasculitis may be present.
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Prevention
Avoid exposure to medications
to which there are known allergies.
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