Etymed
leukocytoclastic vasculitis
Definition
Inflammation of blood vessels characterized by the destruction of white blood cells
Clinical context
A 45-year-old woman presents with purpuric lesions on her lower extremities and joint pain. Skin biopsy reveals leukocytoclastic vasculitis with neutrophilic infiltration and nuclear debris in vessel walls. The condition is often associated with autoimmune diseases and drug reactions.
Mnemonic
LEUKO - White blood cell destruction, CYTIC - Cell injury, VASCU - Vascular inflammation, LITIS - Tissue damage