Cause 6. Malignancies: Vasculitis and Cancer
Malignancies, or cancers, can also be associated with the development of vasculitis. In some cases, the immune system’s response to cancer cells can lead to blood vessel inflammation. This is thought to occur when cancer cells produce substances that trigger an immune response , which then inadvertently targets blood vessels. In other instances, the immune system may produce antibodies against cancer cells that cross-react with blood vessel components, causing inflammation and damage.
Cancers that have been associated with vasculitis include hematological malignancies, such as lymphomas and leukemias, as well as solid tumors, such as lung and breast cancer. In some cases, vasculitis may be the first sign of an underlying malignancy, making it essential for healthcare providers to consider this possibility when evaluating patients with vasculitis.
Treatment of vasculitis associated with malignancies typically involves addressing the underlying cancer itself. This may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapies, depending on the specific type of cancer. In some cases, additional therapies may be necessary to manage the inflammation and damage caused by vasculitis. (6)
