Childhood Vasculitis

Childhood vasculitis is a complex group of clinically heterogeneous disorders. In agreement with the nomenclature in the adult age-group, childhood vasculitis is classified based on the size of affected vessels and histological patterns. While some forms of vasculitis are specific for, or are more common, in children, others occur in patients of all ages. Furthermore, while some forms of vasculitis can take relatively mild courses, others are life-threatening and require early diagnosis and treatment initiation. Frequently, clinical courses and outcomes are less favorable in children and adolescents in comparison with those in adults. This may be caused by (i) unawareness and subsequently delayed diagnosis, (ii) higher disease activity and pre-existing organ damage at diagnosis, as well as (iii) alternative pathological mechanisms. There is a critical need for further investigations into (i) the molecular mechanisms underlying childhood vasculitis, (ii) new target-directed and individualized treatment options, and (iii) outcome prediction in children.

In this Research Topic, we welcome the submission of articles that aim to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of childhood vasculitis and those that discuss currently available biomarkers and treatment options, as well as future directions.