Systemic vasculitis: one year in review 2023

Systemic vasculitides are heterogeneous disabling diseases characterised by chronic inflammation of the blood vessels potentially leading to tissue destruction and organ failure. The recent COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the epidemiology and management of patients with systemic vasculitis. In parallel, new insights have been provided on systemic vasculitis pathogenetic mechanisms, possible new therapeutic targets, and newer glucocorticoid-sparing treatments with better safety profiles. As in the previous annual reviews of this series, in this review we will provide a critical digest of the most recent literature regarding pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tools and treatment options in small-and large-vessel vasculitis focusing on precision medicine in vasculitis.

Automated summary

Systemic vasculitides are diverse and disabling diseases characterized by chronic inflammation of blood vessels, which can result in tissue damage and organ failure. The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the epidemiology and management of patients with systemic vasculitis. New research has also provided insights into the pathogenesis of systemic vasculitis, potential therapeutic targets, and safer glucocorticoid-sparing treatments. This review critically evaluates recent literature on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic tools, and treatment options for small and large vessel vasculitis, with a focus on precision medicine in vasculitis.