How is eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA, formerly Churg-Strauss Syndrome) diagnosed?

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How is eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA, formerly Churg-Strauss Syndrome) diagnosed?

The healthcare provider may use the following tests to diagnose EGPA:

  • Medical history: to look for EGPA, especially asthma, allergies and other features of the disease.
  • Physical examination: to discover which organs are involved and to rule out other illnesses that may look similar.
  • Blood tests: to look for abnormal blood counts and an increase in eosinophils and special antibody testing called ANCA.
  • Urinalysis: to detect whether there is too much protein, or red blood cells, in the urine.
  • Imaging tests such as x-rays and computed tomography (CT) to look for any abnormalities in areas such as the lungs or sinuses.

Once the diagnosis of EGPA is suspected, a biopsy (tissue sample) is often performed to try to find eosinophils, eosinophilic granulomas and/or vasculitis. Biopsies are not required in all cases, and are only recommended when abnormal findings are seen in the exam, laboratory tests, or imaging tests.

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