periarteritis nodosa, a progressive polymorphic disease of the connective tissue that is characterized by numerous large and palpable nodules or clusters of visible nodules along segments of middle-sized arteries, particularly near points of bifurcation. The disease causes occlusion of vessels, resulting in regional ischemia, hemorrhage, necrosis, and pain. Early signs of the disease include tachycardia, fever, weight loss, and pain in the viscera. Kidney, lung, and intestinal involvement is common. Other systems and organs of the body may also be affected. Periarteritis nodosa is treated with corticosteroids and cytotoxic drugs. Also called necrotizing angiitis.
