Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (Wegener’s) Masquerading as Non-Resolving Pneumonia

Abstract

Non-resolving pneumonia (NRP) includes those cases of presumed pneumonia that progress, resolve slowly, or fail to achieve complete resolution despite appropriate treatment [1]. Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA), previously known as Wegener’s granulomatosis is a multi-system disorder characterized by systemic necrotizing vasculitis which most commonly affects the small and medium vessels of the upper and lower respiratory tract and the kidneys [2,3]. Diagnosis of GPA requires a high index of suspicion, as the initial presentation is usually nonspecific, and most patients are usually diagnosed around 3-12 months from the onset of symptoms [4]. We present a case of a patient with nonresolving pneumonia who was eventually diagnosed with GPA.