[Immunological vasculopathies]

Vasculitis due to immunological mechanisms is caused by attachment of immune-complexes to the wall of vessels. This occurs in capillaries causing dysfunction and damage or organs or in other vessels causing isolated vasculitis. Regularly, also serositis can be seen. Best known examples are systemic lupus erythematosus and serum-sickness. Diagnosis refers to the detection of antigen and antibody or of immune-complexes. Steroids and antiinflammatory as well as immunosuppressive drugs are used for therapy. During the acute phase also plasmapheresis is of benefit.