Cutaneous Vasculitis

Abstract

Cutaneous vasculitis (CV) includes a wide spectrum of entities characterized by predominant skin manifestations and a variable grade of systemic involvement. CV exhibits a variety of cutaneous lesions depending on the size of the involved vessels, with the most common being palpable purpura. CV can be found as part of the clinical spectrum of primary systemic vasculitis, autoimmune diseases, or less commonly as presenting manifestation of mimicking conditions such as infections and neoplastic diseases. In this regard, an adequate clinical approach is required to establish optimal management of this condition. CV limited to the skin usually respond to bed-rest and low-dose glucocorticosteroid therapy. However, when systemic involvement exists, immunosuppressive drugs such as azathioprine, intravenous cyclophosphamide, or rituximab may be considered.