WHAT IS EGPA?
Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare disease characterized by inflamed blood vessels throughout the body. The lungs and skin are usually affected, but other organs can be involved. EGPA occurs in patients with a history of Asthma.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Symptoms may include shortness of breath, chest pain, skin rashes or lumps, increased nasal discharge, abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, muscle or joint pain and numbness.
HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?
Persistent symptoms and a history of Asthma may warrant further testing. Diagnostic imaging (chest X-rays or CT scans) may identify lung inflammation. Blood and urine tests may identify organ involvement. A biopsy may be taken from inflamed tissue. The presence of allergic granulomas (clusters of eosinophils) in the sample is an indicator of EGPA.
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
Treatment is centered on decreasing the inflammation in the blood vessels to minimize organ damage and suppressing the immune system. Your Gateway Asthma & Allergy Relief doctor may prescribe Prednisone to decrease the inflammation and cyclophosphamide to reduce the immune response.