Wegener's Granulomatosis

Wegener`s graulomatosis is a potentially lethal systemic disease that affects the upper(nasal mucosa) and lower respiratory tract and the kidneys. It is characterized histologically by necrotizing granulomatous vasculitis. The cytoplasmic staining antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody(c-ANCA) test, has high specificity and sensitivity, but tissue diagnosis is necessary to confirm diagnosis. Biopsy specimens taken from the edge of the involvement give better yield, but obtaining a positive biopsy may be difficult and several biopsies may be required.It usually affects young or middle aged adults.Although it is uncommon in children it can affect people at any age. The cause of wegener`s granulomatosis is not known.