Classic Polyarteritis Nodosa Treatment in India

Anjali Brown, a 58-year-old retired school...

Anjali Brown, a 58-year-old retired school librarian, had been struggling with unexplained fatigue, muscle aches, and a persistent low-grade fever for months. Her primary care physician initially suspected a viral illness, but when she developed painful, red nodules on her lower legs and began experiencing sharp, intermittent abdominal pain, she was referred to a rheumatologist. Tests revealed elevated inflammatory markers and signs of nerve damage. A kidney biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of Classic Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN). Given her new onset of chest pain and an abnormal EKG, her rheumatologist urgently referred her to a cardiologist, Dr. Evans. He explained that PAN's vasculitis could be affecting her coronary arteries, posing a significant risk of heart attack. He recommended an immediate coronary angiogram to assess the damage. The procedure was anxiety-inducing but performed smoothly. It revealed mild inflammation in several small coronary arteries but no critical blockages. Post-procedure, Anjali was started on a high-dose steroid (prednisone) and a powerful immunosuppressant (cyclophosphamide) to calm the systemic inflammation. Her recovery was challenging, with the side effects of medication causing weight gain and mood swings. However, over six months, her systemic symptoms faded, the chest pain resolved, and her cardiac scans stabilized. Emotionally, she journeyed from profound fear and confusion about the rare diagnosis to cautious relief. While she grieves the loss of her previous robust health, she feels empowered by a clear treatment plan and a supportive medical team, focusing on managing her condition one day at a time.