All conditions
Vasculitis & polymyalgia
Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
Also known as: EGPA, Churg-Strauss syndrome
A rare vasculitis in people with asthma that involves high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell.
Video lesson
Animated explainer
What it is
EGPA typically follows years of adult-onset asthma and sinus disease. Eosinophils rise in the blood and tissues, and small blood vessels become inflamed, which can affect nerves, skin, heart, kidneys and gut.
Symptoms
Worsening asthma, sinus problems and nasal polyps, numbness or weakness in the hands or feet, skin rash or nodules, fatigue, weight loss and sometimes chest pain or palpitations.
How it’s diagnosed
Blood tests show a high eosinophil count, and ANCA antibodies are positive in about a third of people. Biopsy, chest imaging, nerve studies and heart evaluation help define the extent of disease.
Treatment
Steroids are the starting point. Mepolizumab, which blocks IL-5, reduces relapses and steroid needs. Severe organ involvement may need cyclophosphamide or rituximab.
Living with it
Keep asthma well controlled and report new numbness, chest symptoms or rash quickly. Steroid side effects should be monitored over time.
At a glance
Category
Vasculitis & polymyalgia
Also known as
EGPA, Churg-Strauss syndrome
Reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD, FACR
Questions about your own care?
Book an in-person or telehealth consultation with Dr. Tahir.
For education only. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without talking to your care team.