Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a rare blood vessel disease where your blood vessels are inflamed. Small lumps called granulomas may also form when the cells lining your blood vessels die. This can cause a decrease in blood flow to your organs, most commonly your respiratory tract, lungs, and kidneys.
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An IV
is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.
Healthcare providers will check your vital signs.
Vital signs include blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and temperature. The providers will also ask about your pain.
Medicines:
- Antibiotics may be given to treat or prevent an infection.
- Steroids are given to decrease inflammation.
- Immunosuppressive therapy may be given to slow your immune system and help prevent organ damage.
Tests:
- Blood and urine tests are done to check for infection, kidney function, and antibodies to GPA.
- A chest x-ray checks for lung damage that may be caused by GPA.
- A biopsy may be done to check for damage caused by GPA. A tissue sample from your affected organ is taken and sent to a lab for tests.
Treatment:
- Plasma exchange is done to separate the plasma in your blood from your blood cells. Plasma is the liquid part of your blood. Your blood cells are then returned to your body and your body creates new plasma. Plasma exchange may be needed if you have life-threatening organ damage. Ask for more information about plasma exchange.
- Surgery may be needed to help control nosebleeds or repair damage to your nose. You may also need surgery to repair damage tissue in your airway. A kidney transplant may be needed if GPA causes your kidneys to fail. Ask for more information about surgeries to treat the effects of GPA.
Treatment options
The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.
RISKS:
Granulomas may block the blood flow to other body organs and damage your organs and tissues. You may have skin problems, hearing and vision loss, and you may have a heart attack. Your lungs may not function properly. The inflammation and granulomas may lead to kidney failure and could be life-threatening.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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