Causes & Risk Factors Of Churg-Strauss Syndrome

Churg-Strauss syndrome, which is also known as eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis, is a condition characterized by blood vessel inflammation. When this inflammation occurs, blood flow to the vital tissues and organs becomes restricted. The disorder can lead to a plethora of other issues and complications, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, the development of a rash, hay fever, and numbness or pain in the feet and hands. It is a highly variable illness with varying degrees of symptoms. While some patients may only present with mild symptoms, others can experience life-threatening complications. Churg-Strauss syndrome is quite rare and, as of now, there is no cure. However, with care and treatment, symptoms can be managed. Several known causes and risk factors contribute to the development of Churg-Strauss. Uncover them now.

Immune System Response

Though the exact cause of Churg-Strauss syndrome is unknown, an overactive immune system response is one consistently recorded risk factor. The immune system is designed to protect the human body and fend off foreign invaders, but it can sometimes malfunction. This malfunction can be triggered by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental stimuli, allergens, or medications. Instead of protecting the body from foreign invaders, such as bacteria and viruses, an overactive immune system can mistakenly target healthy tissues and cause unnecessary, damaging inflammation. In turn, this can lead to extensive and often permanent damage to vital organs, such as the heart and kidneys, as well as cause scarring on the skin and damage to the peripheral nervous system.

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Age

How old a person is has been shown to be another risk factor for developing Churg-Strauss syndrome. On average, individuals are diagnosed with the disorder between the ages of thirty and forty-five. However, recent trends demonstrate an increased diagnosis in children. Whether this is actually due to an increase in incidences or individuals are simply more aware of the disorder is unknown. In individuals who are thirty to forty-five, the previously stated primary age group for Churg-Strauss syndrome patients, it is believed the syndrome develops as a result of long-term asthma and chronic nasal problems, such as chronic sinusitis. The condition develops when these allergies and complications are difficult to control, weakening the system and predisposing the person to develop the syndrome.

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History Of Asthma

Having a history of asthma is perhaps the main risk factor for developing Churg-Strauss syndrome, along with other lung-related ailments. Inflammation of the lungs is one of the main signs of the disorder, mimicking the exact mechanism of the common breathing condition. Asthma causes symptoms including wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath, which contribute to Churg-Strauss. Pressure on the sinuses and a stuffy or runny nose are also related. However, individuals with asthma may actually notice an improvement in their condition if Churg-Strauss syndrome develops, as the inflammation will spread to other organs and parts of the body. This warrants careful moderation of symptoms to be mindful of its progression.

Continue reading to learn about another connection asthma has that raises the risk of Churg-Strauss syndrome.

Asthma Medication

Certain types of asthma medication also increase an individual's risk of developing Churg-Strauss syndrome, though this is quite rare. While there is no exact proven tie to medication, some individuals were shown to develop the condition after using an asthma medication called montelukast. These tablets or granules are commonly recommended for asthma as well as chronic seasonal allergies. Other patients also developed Churg-Strauss syndrome after switching from oral steroid medications commonly suggested for asthma to the versions released through inhalers. Any medication taken for chronic breathing and allergy disorders can have damaging effects on the nerves and tissues in the area, inflaming the tissues and potentially causing scarring.

Continue to learn more about the causes and risk factors of Churg-Strauss syndrome.

Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) are autoantibodies present in the blood. They were first identified in 1982 in some patients presenting with symptoms of systemic vasculitis, of which Churg-Strauss is a sub-condition. Many studies have since been conducted to analyze ANCA levels in people with Churg-Strauss. It has been noted ANCA-negative and ANCA-positive patients might present with different symptoms. ANCA-positivity has been shown to indicate inflammation and yield symptoms of this, whereas ANCA is now believed to play a pathogenic role, and clinicians are recommended to monitor its activity when controlling the course of their patients' treatment.