What causes Immune Complex Mediated Small Vessel Vasculitides
Several different underlying etiologies can result in subsequent development of cutaneous vasculitis, and this clinical finding should prompt an evaluation for an underlying associated condition(s). All patients should be asked about new medications, recent infections, and risk factors for hepatitis C. Between 30% and 50% of cases have no identifiable cause. Hypersensitivity vasculitis is the diagnosis given to these patients when there is no identifiable case. Regardless of the etiology, the vascular injury is believed to be triggered by the deposition of ICs in the vessel wall with activation of complement, leading to migration of PMNs to the area, release of lysosomal enzymes, and damage to the vessel wall.
