[Vasculitis].

Abstract

Systemic vasculitis is a rare condition that usually takes a chronic and often unpredictable course. Long-term outcome is crucially dependent on a close cooperation between the primary caregiver and the specialist. The tentative diagnosis is based on the medical history and clinical examination and verified by laboratory diagnostics, high-resolution imaging and histological assessment. The primary aim of therapy is to induce remission and provide emergency treatment of any vital organs that may be in jeopardy. Later on, remission maintenance and glucocorticoid sparing are important targets. During this phase, it is important to differentiate between disease activity and disease damage when optimizing the drug regimen. In addition to the basic treatment, arterial blood pressure should be controlled, screening for cardiovascular risk factors conducted and infections identified early. Nowadays, good outcomes can be achieved thanks to improved diagnostic tests, a broader therapeutic spectrum and more effective monitoring.