Since the discovery of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) and the introduction of tests to measure these antibodies in serum, the classification of primary systemic vasculitis has been reinterpreted. This volume discusses the various types of systemic vasculitis that may afflict patients, with a focus on the renal complications. The contributions contain new concepts about the classification and pathogenesis of microscopic polyarteritis, Wegener's granulomatosis, Churg-Strauss syndrome and idiopathic extracapillary glomerulonephritis. Emphasis is placed on the clinical and diagnostic value of ANCA tests in connection with the pathogenetic mechanisms of disease. Clinical and histologic renal features in systemic vasculitis are considered, together with the latest information about prognosis and treatment.
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