Churg-Strauss syndrome /churg″strous″/ [Jacob Churg, 20th-century American pathologist; Lotte Strauss, 20th-century American pathologist] , a systemic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of small and medium-sized blood vessels. The cause is unknown. See also vasculitis. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: The syndrome develops in several stages: (1) airway inflammation (often asthma), (2) hypereosinophilia, and (3) vasculitis. If present, skin lesions consist of tender subcutaneous nodules and bruiselike spots. The eosinophil count is generally high. A biopsy of affected tissue will demonstrate a characteristic pattern with eosinophils present in the tissue. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Treatment goals are directed to reducing the inflammation and suppression of the immune system. Medications usually include high doses of corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan). ▪ PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS: The disease can be fatal if untreated; with aggressive treatment, remission is possible.
