Akron Children’s offers the only Vasculitis Clinic in the state that provides comprehensive care to children with this complex autoimmune disorder. In autoimmune disorders, an overactive immune system causes the body to attack and damage its own tissues. Although vasculitis is uncommon, it causes irritation in the blood vessels, which can affect many organs, especially the kidneys.
The Vasculitis Clinic team includes a pediatric rheumatologist who specializes in treating autoimmune disorders in children, and a pediatric nephrologist who specializes in treating pediatric kidney disease. These two specialists work with you to coordinate your child’s treatment plan.
Other team members include:
- A dietitian who can recommend a diet appropriate for your child’s condition.
- A psychologist who can help you and your child cope with the emotional aspects of living with this chronic and complex illness.
- A social worker who can assist you with many of the stressors that accompany a child’s chronic illness and connect you to the appropriate community or hospital resources.
Depending on the nature of your child’s illness, your child may also see other pediatric specialists from cardiology, neurology, pulmonology or dermatology.
Our comprehensive clinic makes it possible for your child to see all the specialists they need in one visit. Having a dedicated team means you will see the same specialists at each visit, who understand your child’s unique needs.
