Wegener's granulomatosis: symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

PURPOSE: To provide nurse practitioners with a basic understanding of the clinical presentation, diagnosis, diagnostic testing, pharmacological treatment, and prevalence of Wegener's granulomatosis (WG).

DATA SOURCES: Published research and clinical articles, and a case report.

CONCLUSIONS

WG is a systemic disease characterized by vasculitis, necrosis, and granulomas. The diagnosis of WG is difficult, particularly early in the disease process. In order to confirm the diagnosis, the patient should undergo specific tests such as antineutrophil cytoplasm antibodies, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein, and biopsy of the tissue involved.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The diagnosis of WG is often delayed because of the vague symptoms on presentation. Initial symptoms, such as chronic fatigue, upper respiratory infection, sinusitis, and otitis media are common and may not be alarming. Recognizing symptoms, ordering diagnostic tests, and providing appropriate pharmacological therapy is key to diagnosing and treating WG.