Early Manifestations of Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis: A Case Report

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA), a rare autoimmune disease formerly known as Wegener's granulomatosis, is characterized by systemic necrotizing vasculitis that primarily affects small-to mediumsized vessels.Classically, GPA manifests in the respiratory tract and kidneys; however, its early symptoms can be nonspecific, complicating timely diagnosis.This report describes the case of a 43-year-old Caucasian male presenting with progressive polyarthralgia, intermittent fever, weight loss, and other systemic symptoms over three months.Initial clinical findings, including night sweats, fatigue, and a dry cough, were nonspecific and prompted further diagnostic investigations.His condition progressed with worsening anemia, declining kidney function, and elevated inflammatory markers.Diagnostic evaluation, including serologic testing and renal biopsy, ultimately confirmed the diagnosis of GPA with pauci-immune crescentic glomerulonephritis.This report underscores the importance of comprehensive history-taking, thorough physical examination, and a systemic approach to clinical evaluation.It highlights the critical role of primary care physicians in recognizing subtle, systemic symptoms that may point to an underlying autoimmune disease and coordinating early referrals for appropriate diagnostic testing.Timely recognition of GPA can improve outcomes, particularly when appropriate treatment is initiated promptly.