Diagnosis

Creator: Dr. Nithin Jayan
Keywords: Polyarteritis Nodosa, PAN, Diagnosis of Polyarteritis Nodosa, Arteriography, necrotizing arteritis, Biopsy, nerve conduction studies, Laboratory tests for PAN

Written by - Dr. Nithin Jayan, MBBS, DNB

Medically Reviewed by - Dr. Simi Paknikar, MD

Last Updated on Apr 19, 2013

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Polyarteritis Nodosa is confirmed by biopsy or arteriography. Laboratory tests are nonspecific.

A suspicion of PAN arises based on the clinical findings already described. Tests used to confirm the diagnosis of Polyarteritis Nodosa are:

Biopsy: Examination of tissues reveals necrotizing arteritis

Arteriography: Arteriography shows the typical aneurysms (widening and outpouching of arterial wall) in medium-sized arteries.

Imaging techniques like magnetic resonance angiography (MRI) may not be of value. Electromyography and nerve conduction studies may be required to choose the site of biopsy.

It is important to test the patient for hepatitis B and C.

Published on Nov 29, 2012
Last Updated on Apr 19, 2013

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