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Wegener's Granulomatosis

Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

What is Wegener's granulomatosis?

Wegener's granulomatosis is a uncommon type of inflammation of small arteries and veins (vasculitis). It classically involves inflammation of the arteries that supply blood to the tissues of the lungs, the nasal passages (sinuses), and the kidneys. "Incomplete" forms exist that only involve one of these areas. When both lungs and kidneys are affected, the condition is sometimes referred to as generalized Wegener's granulomatosis. When only the lungs are involved, the condition is sometimes referred to as limited Wegener's granulomatosis.

Wegener's granulomatosis usually affects young or middle-aged adults. Although it is uncommon in children, it can affect people at any age. The cause of Wegener's granulomatosis is not known.



Next: What are symptoms of Wegener's granulomatosis? »

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