granulomatóza

Granulomatóza refers to a group of inflammatory diseases characterized by the formation of granulomas. Granulomas are microscopic collections of immune cells, specifically macrophages, which often surround areas of infection or inflammation. These cellular aggregates are a hallmark of the body's attempt to wall off and contain persistent irritants that it cannot eliminate.

The specific type of granulomatóza depends on the underlying cause and affected organs. One prominent example is granulomatóza s polyangiitidou (GPA), formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis. GPA is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation of blood vessels (vasculitis), primarily affecting the respiratory tract and kidneys. Symptoms can vary widely but may include nasal congestion, sinusitis, ear infections, cough, shortness of breath, and kidney problems. Diagnosis often involves blood tests, imaging studies, and a biopsy of affected tissue. Treatment typically involves immunosuppressive medications.

Another condition, eosinophilic granulomatóza s polyangiitidou (EGPA), also known as Churg-Strauss syndrome, is characterized by inflammation of small and medium-sized blood vessels, often associated with asthma and elevated levels of eosinophils in the blood. Sarcoidosis is another granulomatous disease that can affect multiple organs, most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. While the exact cause of many granulomatous diseases remains unclear, they are believed to involve an abnormal immune system response.