​Pathology - Polyarteritis Nodosa

​Pathology - Polyarteritis Nodosa 
Polyarteritis Nodosa is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels.
The cause of this condition is currently unidentified, but it is linked to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in 30% to 50% of individuals.
It primarily impacts men in their middle age, but it can also occur in individuals of any age and gender.

Pathology 
Gross Pathology: Impacts muscular arteries of small or medium size, particularly at the junctions of vessels in the kidney, heart, liver, or gastrointestinal tract. The lesions vary in age.
Study of cellular and tissue abnormalities at a microscopic level. The artery wall is experiencing inflammation that affects all layers, with the presence of neutrophils, eosinophils, and mononuclear cells infiltrating the area. Fibrinoid necrosis may be observed.

Clinical manifestations and indications 
The patient presents with fever, unintentional weight loss, general discomfort, abdominal pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting, joint pain, kidney failure, nerve damage, high blood pressure, cotton-wool spots in the retina, inflammation of the heart muscle and the outer lining of the heart, and the presence of small purple spots that may be felt on the skin.
Laboratory results: Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) with elevated white blood cell count (leukocytosis)

Treatment options include the use of corticosteroids, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, and antiviral treatment for HBV-related conditions.