Wegener's granulomatosis. Typical symptoms in an atypical patient.

Wegener's granulomatosis classically involves the respiratory tract and kidneys, and the disorder may be confused with any of a number of diseases having similar symptoms. Although most common in middle-aged whites, Wegener's granulomatosis may occur in atypical patients, as in the case described here. Accurate diagnosis depends on lung biopsy, and prompt treatment prevents permanent damage and significant sequelae.