Signs and symptoms of GPA and MPA

The signs and symptoms of GPA and MPA vary widely. The chart below lists the most common signs and symptoms and the kinds of doctors that you may see. Keep in mind that these are just some of the symptoms of GPA and MPA. There may be others that you are experiencing that are not included in this list.

Be sure to listen to your body

Being aware of your symptoms can help you talk to your doctor about how you're feeling and what treatments may be right for you. You know how you are feeling more than anyone. So, if you're not feeling well or you are experiencing symptoms, be sure talk to your doctor right away.

It's important to see your doctor regularly so he or she can monitor your disease and any symptoms you may be having.

Common signs and symptoms of GPA and MPA

These are only some of the signs and symptoms of GPA and MPA. The symptoms of these diseases vary widely, so it's important that you talk to your doctor about any symptoms you may be experiencing. He or she is the only person who can diagnose GPA and MPA.

  Common signs & symptoms Major organs involved Specialists involved
Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis
  • Sinus and nose congestion
  • Nosebleeds
  • Fever
  • Cough (with or without blood)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Lack of energy
  • Nasal membrane ulcerations and crusting
  • Hearing loss
  • Eye inflammation
  • Numbness or tingling in limbs
  • Weakness
  • Blood in urine (may or may not change urine color)
  • Joint pain
  • Upper respiratory tract (sinuses, nose, ears, and windpipe)
  • Lungs
  • Kidneys
  • Ear, nose, and throat doctor (ENT)
  • Pulmonologist (a lung specialist)
  • Nephrologist (a kidney specialist)
  • Rheumatologist (a joint andmuscle specialist)
Microscopic Polyangiitis
  • Shortness of breath
  • Cough (with or without blood)
  • Blood in urine (may or may not change urine color)
  • Weight loss
  • Rash and/or skin sores
  • Numbness or tingling in limbs
  • Weakness
  • Fever
  • Kidneys
  • Skin
  • Nervous system
  • Lungs
  • Neurologist (a nervous system specialist)
  • Dermatologist (a skin specialist)
  • Nephrologist (a kidney specialist)
  • Rheumatologist (a joint and muscle specialist)
Keep in mind

GPA and MPA affect people of all genders, ages, races, and nationalities.

WHAT IS RITUXAN?

Rituxan® (rituximab) is used with glucocorticoids to treat adults with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener's Granulomatosis) and Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Rituxan therapy can result in serious side effects, some of which can be life threatening. These include:

  • infusion reactions
  • tumor lysis syndrome (TLS)
  • severe skin and mouth reactions
  • progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)

Other serious, potentially life-threatening side effects are:

  • hepatitis B infection that may become active again
  • serious infections
  • heart problems
  • low blood cell counts

Common side effects include infections and infusion reactions.

Before treatment with Rituxan, patients should tell their doctor if they have an infection, including one that will not go away or that keeps coming back.

If patients experience any symptoms or side effects during or after Rituxan treatment, they should seek immediate medical attention.

These are not all of the possible side effects with Rituxan. Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

Please see full prescribing information, including Medication Guide.

If you have any questions about this information, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.