How does polyarteritis nodosa develop?
The cause of polyarteritis nodosa is unknown. It is clear, however, that the immune system plays a critical role in the tissue damage caused by the disease. In polyarteritis nodosa the immune system produces antibodies that attack the body, causing inflammation to develop in the blood vessels. Inflammation in blood vessel and artery walls leads to narrowing of the vessels. The blood vessels become leaky or clogged, disrupting blood flow to nerves, organs and other parts of the body. Inadequate blood supply to a particular tissue or organ can result in permanent damage such as loss of pulse points, blindness and pulmonary failure. Any organ or combination of organs in the body can be affected. What are the symptoms of polyarteritis nodosa? Polyarteritis nodosa may develop over several weeks or months. Depending on which organs are affected, patients may have nonspecific complaints such as fever, sweats, malaise, weight loss, anorexia, abdominal pain and severe muscle and joint aches and
