Polyarteritis Nodosa

Medium Vessel Vasculitis

Understanding Polyarteritis Nodosa: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Advanced Care

Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN) is a rare autoimmune inflammatory disorder that affects medium-sized blood vessels, causing necrotizing vasculitis leading to organ damage and tissue ischemia. Unlike other vasculitides, PAN typically spares the lungs and is associated with hepatitis B infection in some cases. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial to managing symptoms, preventing organ damage, and improving quality of life. At IRIS Centre for Rheumatology, we offer world-class, patient-centric care for PAN using the latest advances in rheumatology.

Polyarteritis Nodosa can affect anyone at any age, but it most commonly occurs in middle-aged adults (40-60 years). Men are affected slightly more frequently than women. The condition may also cause systemic inflammation affecting the skin, nerves, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. At IRIS, our multidisciplinary team ensures comprehensive management from early diagnosis to long-term remission strategies.

With our state-of-the-art immunodiagnostic laboratory, angiography, and personalized treatment plans — including immunosuppressants, corticosteroids, and antiviral therapy for HBV-associated PAN — we aim to halt disease progression, relieve symptoms, and prevent organ damage. Healing begins with expert care and compassion.

Common Symptoms of Polyarteritis Nodosa

PAN symptoms can affect multiple organ systems. Early recognition leads to better outcomes.

• Fever, fatigue, weight loss (constitutional symptoms)
• Skin manifestations: Livedo reticularis, nodules, ulcers
• Mononeuritis multiplex (nerve damage causing weakness/numbness)
• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting (gastrointestinal involvement)
• Testicular pain, hypertension (renal artery involvement)
• Muscle and joint pain