Wegener's granulomatosis is characterized by inflammation of the blood vessels, which in turn interferes with normal blood flow. The condition can cause damage to internal organs in the body, but affects mainly the respiratory tract: the sinuses, nose, trachea and lungs. Wegener's can also affect the kidneys. Wegener's can strike men and women of any age. It is more prevalent in Caucasians than in African Americans.

In medicine (rheumatology), Wegener's granulomatosis is a form of vasculitis that affects the lungs, kidneys and other organs. Due to its end-organ damage, it can be a serious disease that requires long-term immune suppression.Seo P, Stone JH. The antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitides.