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Take a closer look at
ANCA-associated vasculitis

A deeper understanding of ANCA-associated vasculitis may reveal new possibilities for its management. Find out what ANCA-associated vasculitis is, how it develops, and why understanding its impact matters.

ANCA-associated vasculitis:
What it is, how it develops, and why treatment matters

GPA MPA

what

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Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis is a group of rare diseases that leads to the blood vessels in your body becoming inflamed. This reduces the flow of blood to important organs, like the kidneys, and can cause organ damage. The 2 most common sub-types of ANCA-associated vasculitis are:

  • Granulomatosis with polyangiitis, or GPA (previously called Wegener’s granulomatosis), which typically involves the kidneys, lungs, ears, nose, and throat
  • Microscopic polyangiitis, or MPA, which can affect the lungs and kidneys, but is less likely to affect the ears, nose, and throat
how it develops

how

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While the exact cause of ANCA-associated vasculitis isn’t known yet, researchers have identified a key process that eventually worsens the inflammation of blood vessels:

  • Neutrophils, which are a type of immune cell in the body, become activated
  • This leads to the production of a protein called C5a
  • C5a attaches itself to a receptor, called the C5a receptor or C5aR, which is found on the surface of neutrophils
  • This process of the C5a protein attaching itself to the C5a receptor plays a role in worsening the inflammation of blood vessels in ANCA-associated vasculitis
why treatment matters

why

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Without timely and appropriate treatment, ANCA-associated vasculitis can lead to serious complications, including:

  • Damage to important organs, like the heart, kidneys, or lungs
  • Higher risk of hearing loss
  • Higher risk of blood clots

While ANCA-associated vasculitis is a serious condition, it is treatable. Your doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.

Remember—your doctor is your best resource. Talk to your doctor about available treatment options, resources to help you learn more about managing the impact of your symptoms, or any questions you may have about ANCA-associated vasculitis.

Currently, there are limited treatment options
for ANCA-associated vasculitis

medical prescription

Typically, people who have been diagnosed with ANCA-associated vasculitis are treated with glucocorticoids, which are a group of steroids that have anti-inflammatory effects. However, long-term treatment with glucocorticoids can lead to debilitating side effects.

ANCA-associated vasculitis in real life

Explore the real-world experiences of people like you who are living with ANCA-associated vasculitis.
ANCA-associated vasculitis impacts everyone differently. Your doctor will work with you to create a management plan that fits your needs.

Diane
Brandon
Trena
Kathy

Navigating the journey is easier with support along the way

support

While your doctor is always your best resource when it comes to your symptoms or their treatment, there are other organizations that can offer support, education, and resources that may help you or your loved one. Visit their websites to learn more.

National Kidney Logo
The National Kidney Foundation is the leading organization in the U.S. dedicated to the awareness, prevention, and treatment of kidney disease.
Visit Now
Vasculitis Foundation Logo
The Vasculitis Foundation supports, inspires, and empowers people and families living with vasculitis through a wide range of education, research, clinical, and awareness initiatives.
Visit Now
NORD Logo
NORD is a patient advocacy organization committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research, and patient services.
Visit Now

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