noun Pathology. inflammation of the layers of an artery or of many arteries, usually caused by a severe hypersensitivity reaction, and characterized by nodules and hemorrhage along the involved vessels.

What is the definition of polyarteritis?

Medical Definition of polyarteritis nodosa

: an acute inflammatory disease that involves all layers of the arterial wall and is characterized by degeneration, necrosis, exudation, and the formation of inflammatory nodules along the outer layer. — called also periarteritis nodosa.

What is the meaning of Nodosa?

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a condition that causes swollen arteries. It primarily affects small and medium arteries, which can become inflamed or damaged. This is a serious disease of the blood vessels caused by an immune system malfunction.