Småvaskuliter

Småvaskuliter is a term used in dermatology to describe a group of skin conditions characterized by inflammation of small blood vessels, typically less than 100 micrometers in diameter. These conditions are often associated with autoimmune disorders, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. The term "småvaskuliter" is derived from Swedish, where "små" means small and "vaskuliter" refers to inflammation of blood vessels.

Common examples of småvaskuliter include:

1. Henoch-Schönlein purpura, a condition that primarily affects children and is characterized by purpura (purple or red discoloration) on the skin, often accompanied by abdominal pain and joint swelling.

2. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis, a rare condition that causes inflammation and damage to small blood vessels, leading to skin lesions, joint pain, and kidney problems.

3. Cutaneous lupus erythematosus, a skin manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disorder that can affect various organs and systems in the body.

The diagnosis of småvaskuliter typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests, and sometimes biopsy of the affected skin. Treatment options may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, and other medications to reduce inflammation and prevent damage to the affected tissues. In some cases, lifestyle modifications and dietary changes may also be recommended to manage symptoms and improve overall health.