[Systemic vasculitides: revised nomenclature, new therapeutic strategies]

Vasculitides comprise a heterogeneous group of inflammatory diseases of the blood vessels, which are characterized both by their diversity and an overlap of clinical and pathological findings and manifestations. The etiology of most vasculitides is not yet clear. Their nomenclature and classification is therefore a challenge for internists, immunologists, and pathologists. The revised Chapel Hill Consensus Conference (CHCC) 2012 nomenclature includes an update of the names and definitions of the CHCC 1994 nomenclature. In addition, four new categories were introduced to describe the spectrum of vasculitis comprehensively. Because of the side effects of cytotoxic immunosuppressive agents there is a need for safer and more effective targeted therapies. The first results from studies using biologicals in the treatment of vasculitides are promising.