Polyarteritis Nodosa: A Rare but Serious Vascular Inflammatory Disease

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a rare form of vasculitis that involves inflammation of the medium-sized arteries, leading to reduced blood flow and damage to vital organs. The condition most commonly develops in middle-aged adults, particularly individuals in their 50s, but it can occur at any age.

Although the exact cause remains unknown, polyarteritis nodosa has been linked to viral infections, immune system abnormalities, and, in some cases, reactions to medications. The condition frequently affects the skin, kidneys, joints, nerves, muscles, and digestive tract, while the heart and liver may also be involved.

In Canada, awareness of systemic inflammatory diseases like polyarteritis nodosa is important for early recognition, emergency response, and workplace safety, particularly for individuals experiencing unexplained multisystem symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Polyarteritis Nodosa

Polyarteritis nodosa may begin mildly but can progress rapidly, becoming life-threatening within months if untreated. In other cases, it develops gradually as a chronic and debilitating illness.

Symptoms vary depending on which organs are affected and how severe the inflammation is. Some individuals experience involvement of a single organ, while others develop widespread disease.

Common early symptoms include:

• Persistent fatigue and general weakness

• Fever and flu-like illness

• Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss

• Night sweats

• Muscle and joint pain

As the disease progresses, organ-specific symptoms may appear, particularly involving the kidneys, nerves, brain, or gastrointestinal tract, which significantly worsens outcomes.

Prognosis and Disease Outlook

Without treatment, polyarteritis nodosa carries a poor prognosis, with a significantly reduced chance of surviving beyond five years. When appropriate treatment is started early, survival rates improve substantially.

Individuals with involvement of the kidneys, nervous system, brain, or digestive tract generally have a more serious outlook and require aggressive management and close monitoring.

Management and Treatment

Treatment aims to control inflammation and prevent further organ damage, though it cannot reverse damage that has already occurred.

Management depends on disease severity and may include:

• High-dose corticosteroids (such as prednisone) to suppress inflammation

• Gradual reduction of steroid dosage once symptoms stabilize

• Immunosuppressive medications when corticosteroids alone are insufficient

• Discontinuation of any medications suspected of triggering the condition

Because long-term steroid and immunosuppressive therapy weakens the immune system, individuals face a higher risk of serious infections. Prompt recognition of infection signs and early treatment are critical.

Why This Matters in First Aid & Emergency Awareness

Individuals with polyarteritis nodosa may experience sudden complications such as organ failure, nerve damage, or severe infections. First aid and CPR training help Canadians recognize medical emergencies, respond appropriately, and seek urgent care when symptoms escalate.

Important Disclaimer

Educational Use Only
This information is intended for health education and first aid awareness in Canada. It is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment. Anyone experiencing unexplained systemic symptoms, fever, or sudden weakness should seek immediate medical evaluation.