Vasculitis: classification and management

Vasculitis, which is pathologically an inflammatory or necrotic state of blood vessels, consists of a diverse group of disesases. The clinical manifestations of vasculitis vary greatly in severity. The simplified classification described in this article is geared toward recognizing the degree of severity of the vasculitic process so that appropriate management can be initiated expeditiously. Emphasis is placed on the vasculitides likely to be encountered in general practice.