Differential diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis

Abstract

Background. Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is chronic granulomatous inflammation with necrotizing vasculitis that mainly involves small and medium-sized arteries. Accurate and timely diagnosis resulted in best treatment options for the patient, leading to positive outcomes of therapy. However, GPA shared some of the clinical and pathological features with many other disorders, making differential diagnosis very challenging. Purpose of Report: The purpose of this publication was to review the differential diagnosis of GPA, list key clinical features, diagnostic tests, and schedules that could differentiate it from such other similar conditions, thus preventing misdiagnosis and providing the appropriate treatment. Material and methods. A thorough review of literature was conducted using medical databases to look for any studies and clinical reports that were relevant to the differential diagnosis of GPA. Results. Conditions that mimicked the features of GPA, such as microscopic polyangiitis, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and some malignancies like lymphoma, were present in the findings. The main distinguishing factor is ANCA (anti-neutrophil cytoplasm antibodies). The critical distinguishing characteristics were the general clinical presentation, and the pattern of organ involvement were also key pointers to the different differential diagnoses. Conclusion. Expansive approach and awareness enlargement about certain characteristics of GPA will be of great assistance for early and accurate diagnosis leading to improved patient outcomes.