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Published on: December 17, 2021
Microscopic polyangiitis: Clinical presentation
Peter M Villiger1, Loïc Guillevin
1Department of Rheumatology, Clinical Immunology and Allergology, University Hospital and University of Bern, Switzerland.
Abstract:
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a member of the family of ANCA-associated vasculitides. Its characteristic histology shows a necrotizing small vessel vasculitis with little or absent immune deposits (pauci-immune vasculitis). In Western countries MPA shows a lower prevalence than Wegener's disease, it affects more men than women and commences at the age of > or = 50 years. The two organs most typically involved and often defining prognosis are the kidneys and the lungs. MPA may concomitantly or sequentially involve other organs such as the nervous system, the skin, the musculoskeletal system, but also the heart, the eye and the intestines. Treatment decisions should be based on severity and pattern of organ involvement and respect the five factor score (FFS). Life- or organ- threatening disease is treated with glucocorticoids and (pulse) cyclophosphamide. Plasmapheresis and i.v.immunoglobulins have been shown to be beneficial as additional measure in severe cases. If renal function is preserved, Methotrexate may be considered to induce remission, and if the FFS equals 0, remission may be induced with glucocorticoid monotherapy. Maintenance therapy is recommended with Azathioprin, mycophenolate mofetil may be used as a second line drug. Biologic agents such as monoclonal antibodies to tumor necrosis factor a and B cell depleting rituximab have been shown to bear remission-inducing quality.
Insights
Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a pauci-immune small vessel vasculitis. Treatment depends on disease severity, using immunosuppressants like cyclophosphamide, rituximab, and glucocorticoids for remission and maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Immunology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a pauci-immune small vessel vasculitis associated with Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies (ANCA).
- MPA typically affects the kidneys and lungs, significantly impacting patient prognosis.
- It predominantly affects individuals over 50, with a higher prevalence in men.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA).
- To detail the diagnostic characteristics, epidemiology, and clinical manifestations of MPA.
- To outline current treatment strategies based on disease severity and organ involvement.
Main Methods:
- Review of histological findings characteristic of MPA (necrotizing small vessel vasculitis, pauci-immune).
- Analysis of epidemiological data regarding MPA prevalence, age, and sex distribution.
- Summary of treatment protocols, including induction and maintenance therapies for MPA.
Main Results:
- MPA is characterized by pauci-immune necrotizing small vessel vasculitis.
- Kidney and lung involvement are key prognostic factors.
- Treatment strategies vary from glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide for severe disease to methotrexate and biologics like rituximab.
Conclusions:
- MPA requires tailored treatment based on the Five Factor Score (FFS) and organ involvement.
- Induction therapy involves potent immunosuppression, while maintenance aims for long-term remission.
- Emerging biologic therapies offer new avenues for MPA management.
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