Final answer:
Polyarteritis nodosa skin manifestations include inflammation of the conjunctiva with nodules, hypopigmented skin, localized dermis and hypodermis inflammation, and small red nodules often on the shins. Severe cases may lead to significant complications due to its overall systemic impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
Polyarteritis Nodosa Skin Manifestations
Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a condition featuring inflammation of medium and small arteries, frequently affecting the skin. Skin manifestations of polyarteritis nodosa include inflammation of the conjunctiva with nodules, which display as dome-shaped structures with a red base and a paler top. Patients may also exhibit hypopigmented skin, skin lesions, and nodules on various body parts. Furthermore, PAN can lead to localized inflammation of dermis and hypodermis, making the skin red, warm, and painful. The presence of small red nodules, often found on the shins, is another characteristic PAN symptom. The systemic nature of the disease can cause additional symptoms such as loss of peripheral nerve function, potentially leading to loss of fingers, toes, and extremities.
Other broader symptoms associated with PAN but not specific to skin can be high fever, headache, body aches, nausea and vomiting. In some severe cases, PAN may lead to life-threatening complications like disseminated strongyloidiasis or hyperinfection following immunosuppression. Effective management of PAN often requires a multidisciplinary approach given its potential to affect multiple organ systems.
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