Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
vasculitis
Pronunciation: vas-kyuh-LY-tis
Inflammatory disease of blood vessels that can affect arteries, veins, or capillaries of any size.
Full Definition
Vasculitis encompasses a group of disorders characterized by inflammation of blood vessel walls, which can lead to vessel wall thickening, stenosis, or occlusion. The condition can affect vessels of any size from large arteries to small capillaries and may be primary or secondary to other systemic diseases. Classification is typically based on vessel size affected and histological patterns. Early recognition is crucial as vasculitis can cause irreversible organ damage if untreated.
Usage
Usage note: Encompasses many specific conditions; ensure proper subtype specification when mentioned.
In Context
- "The patient presented with systemic vasculitis affecting multiple organ systems." — Medical chart note
- "Biopsy confirmed necrotizing vasculitis involving medium-sized arteries." — Pathology report
Also known as
angiitis
arteritis
Don't confuse with
thrombophlebitis
phlebitis