Churg-Strauss syndrome is a rare type of vasculitis, which is inflammation of the body's blood vessels. It generally affects veins and small arteries in the nerves, skin, lungs, and stomach. It was first described in 1951 by Doctor Churg and Doctor Strauss. CSS usually occurs in people with a history of asthma or allergy and effects can vary hugely from patient to patient. Some have mild symptoms which hardly impact on their daily life, whilst some may suffer from a number of issues. The condition is so rare that it is only diagnosed in between 2 and 10 people in a million each year. The cause of Churg-Strauss syndrome is unknown and it is still a baffling condition which is challenging to diagnose. It most commonly affects people of an average age of 50 years, males being the most affected but only slightly more than females. It is rarer in children and people over 65 years.
The main symptoms of CSS are, inflamed nasal passages, weight loss, fever and fatigue. A shortness of breath, coughs and chest pains may occur as the lungs become affected. Other symptoms can include skin nodules on the extremities, diarrhea and stomach pain, the prostate gland and the bladder may become inflamed.
The prognosis is generally positive and has improved a great deal over the last 30 years. CSS can be treated successfully with a combination of drugs. Aggressive treatment and close monitoring can render it inactive, meaning remission is possible for over 90 percent of patients. As with most diseases early diagnosis and treatment is very important to achieve successful treatment.
Some patients may experience occasional relapses, therefore the activity of the disease will need prolonged and close monitoring by the patients doctor. During a relapse the symptoms may present in a different way, so these need to be reported promptly. Doctors will also need to watch for any side effects the treatments may cause.
The majority of treatments for CSS have side effects. This is why, whenever possible, low doses of medication are prescribed. The nature of the disease tends to be one of fluctuating symptoms, and therefore dosages of medications will also fluctuate. Research continues into CSS and the hope is that new medications with fewer side-effects will be developed.
The use of immunosuppressant's has revolutionised the outlook for Churg-Strauss syndrome. Churg-Strauss syndrome is a chronic condition which can be very serious. CSS, like many other diseases, can be dangerous if left untreated. As a result of greater awareness of the condition and good medical treatment and diagnosis, the majority of patients now go on to enjoy a very good quality of life.