29th January 2024

Background

Epidemiology 

This disease may affect all ethnic backgrounds in any age group, with the typical patient being middle-aged males or females. 

Aetiology

The disease is mediated by the immune system, with no obvious cause of the immune hyperactivity identified.

Pathophysiology

Microscopy polyangiitis is an ANCA-associated vasculitis. ANCA resides in neutrophils and macrophages and leads to destruction of white blood cells at the site of disease with release of enzymes within blood vessel walls, causing damage to the blood vessels.