granulomatosis, Wegener

granulomatosis, Wegener An inflammatory disease of small arteries and veins (vasculitis) that can involve any organ but classically involves vessels supplying the tissues of the lungs, nasal passages (sinuses), and kidneys. Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, fever, shortness of breath, bloody sputum, joint pains, and sinus inflammation, sometimes with nasal ulcerations and bloody nasal discharge. Wegener granulomatosis most commonly affects young or middle-aged adults. The diagnosis of Wegener granulomatosis is confirmed by finding evidence of vasculitis and granulomas on biopsy of tissue that is inflamed. Treatment is directed toward stopping the inflammation process by suppressing the immune system.