Polyarteritis nodosa in childhood: recognition of early dermatologic signs may prevent morbidity.

Systemic polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a vasculitis that affects small to medium-size arteries. Onset in childhood is rare and can cause significant morbidity. Often, cutaneous manifestations can provide early clues toward diagnosis. This article describes a case of childhood systemic PAN that presented with fever, a necrotic skin lesion, and oral ulceration. Intestinal perforation complicated this case. Prompt recognition of childhood PAN is important to prevent serious complications.