In vasculitis, the immune system causes severe inflammation of blood vessels that can cause many problems, including in the kidneys Other names for vasculitis in the kidney include microscopic polyangiitis or granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
People with vasculitis in the kidney may have symptoms like fevers, weight loss, fatigue, cough, and joint pain. Urine and blood tests show if the kidney is affected. These tests may blood in the urine (hematuria), protein in the urine (proteinuria), and kidney injury (decreased estimated GFR or increased blood creatinine). A blood anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody (ANCA) test may be positive. A kidney biopsy is often needed to prove that the kidneys are affected.
Vasculitis does not only affect the kidneys. Other problems can include ear, nose and throat symptoms, lung involvement, skin rashes, joint problems and neurologic symptoms. At Tufts Medical Center, we work with our specialist colleagues in Rheumatology, ENT, Pulmonary, Dermatology, and Neurology. Treatment for vasculitis often consists of medicines which calm down the immune system. We make treatment plans for individual patients only after talking to other specialists.
At Tufts Medical Center, our goal is to give each patient a lifetime of individualized care. We help patients understand what is known and what is not known about their disease and treatments to make the best decision for them. We understand what it's like to live with kidney disease. Dr. Inker and her team are experienced and dedicated kidney doctors who can help you and your family live your life with kidney disease.
Our services include:
- Treatment of active kidney vasculitis
- Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for all stages of chronic kidney disease
- Second opinion regarding existing kidney vasculitis
- Nutritional and other lifestyle counseling
- Dialysis services, including access surgery
- Kidney transplantation and donor-matching services
- Access to any new clinical trials
Programs + Services
The Division of Rheumatology at Tufts Medical Center in Boston offers comprehensive evaluation, consultation and management of arthritis and rheumatic disease.
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