What is Vasculitis?
Vasculitis is a group of autoimmune disorders that cause inflammation of blood vessels, which can lead to organ and tissue damage. These disorders affect vessels of different sizes (small, medium, large) and may involve multiple organs such as kidneys and lungs, as well as the skin. Common forms include ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV), which encompasses granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) and eosinophilic GPA (EGPA), and anti-GBM disease which can overlap with AAV [1].
The underlying cause of vasculitis is often difficult to define or unknown, but it often results in an abnormal immune response. Large vessel vasculitis can lead to severe health complications, including aneurysms and organ ischemia in extreme outcomes. Because vasculitis can present as a medical emergency, timely diagnosis is critical to prevent irreversible tissue damage [2].
What are the symptoms of vasculitis?
Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of vasculitis. Common signs include:
How to diagnose vasculitis?
Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging, biopsy and laboratory tests. A key component is the antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) test, which detects antibodies against myeloperoxidase (MPO) and proteinase 3 (PR3). Additionally, antibodies against the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) are critical markers for anti-GBM disease. Testing for these three markers is important because it better serologically characterizes patients, helping not only to differentiate these conditions but also to identify dual ANCA / anti-GBM positivity, which may have management implications [5].
Lab workflows often rely on separate single-analyte assays. This can delay results and increase operational burden due to a lack of multiplexing functionality. The MosaiQ AiPlex® VAS and microarray technology addresses these challenges by offering:
Through the consolidation of multiple tests into one automated workflow, MosaiQ AiPlex® VAS assay helps clinicians diagnose vasculitis efficiently, supporting enhanced patient and clinical outcomes [7].
MosaiQ® solution supports clinical lab throughput and workflow efficiency
Clinical laboratories face increasing pressure to deliver fast, accurate results while managing operational costs. The MosaiQ platform simplifies complex testing pathways by:
Effective management of vasculitis relies on speed and precision of an initial diagnosis. By integrating the simultaneous detection of anti-MPO, anti-PR3, and anti-GBM antibodies into a single automated workflow, the MosaiQ AiPlex® VAS panel supports improved efficiencies when compared to single-analyte testing.
The multiplex approach by AliveDx optimizes laboratory efficiency and sample to result conversion. Ultimately, our MosaiQ solution transforms the diagnostic pathway from a series of fragmented tests into a single streamlined, actionable process that optimizes throughput. By improving turnaround times and operational efficiency, AliveDx empowers laboratories to deliver high-quality care [7], one that empowers clinicians to improve patient outcomes in these critical autoimmune conditions.
To learn more about AliveDx and the work we do to help accelerate lab workflows and better support patient care, contact us today.
*Certain assays and intended uses for the MosaiQ® microarrays are currently under development and are not yet cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The MosaiQ instrument is IVDR-CE Marked and available in the U.S. as a class II 510(k) exempt device.
*The MosaiQ AiPlex® VAS panel is IVDR-CE marked but currently not cleared for use in the US and/or all global regions.
©2025 – AliveDx Suisse SA – AliveDx, AliveDx logo, MosaiQ, AiPlex and MosaiQ AiPlex are trademarks or registered trademarks of AliveDx group companies in various jurisdictions. Not all methods may be available in all territories. Subject to regulatory clearance in some territories.
References
1. Treppo E et al. Systemic vasculitis: one year in review 2024. Clin Exp Rheumatol. 2024;42(4):771-781.
2. Robson JC et al. 2022 ACR/EULAR GPA Classification Criteria. Ann Rheum Dis. 2022;81(3):315-320.
3. Suppiah R et al. 2022 ACR/EULAR MPA Classification Criteria. Ann Rheum Dis. 2022 ;81(3) :321-326.
4. Grayson PC et al. 2022 ACR/EULAR EGPA Classification Criteria. Ann Rheum Dis. 2022;81(3):309-314.
5. KDIGO 2021 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Glomerular Diseases. Kidney Int. 2021;100(4S): S1-S276.
6. Ntatsaki E et al. BSR and BHPR guideline for the management of adults with ANCA-associated vasculitis. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2014;53(12):2306-9. Hellmich B et al.
7. EULAR recommendations for the management of ANCA-associated vasculitis: 2022 update. Ann Rheum Dis. 2024;83(1):30-47.
