Question 1

Can BVAS be used for all types of vasculitis?

Accepted Answer

BVAS v3 was designed for ANCA-associated vasculitis. For large-vessel vasculitis (Takayasu, giant cell arteritis), the NIH activity score or ITAS (Indian Takayasu Activity Score) are more appropriate.

Question 2

How does BVAS differ from the Vasculitis Damage Index (VDI)?

Accepted Answer

BVAS measures current, potentially reversible disease activity. VDI measures irreversible damage from past activity or treatment (hearing loss, renal scarring, tracheal stenosis). Both are used together in longitudinal vasculitis assessment.

Question 3

What training is needed to use BVAS reliably?

Accepted Answer

The EUVAS group recommends formal training using case vignettes. Inter-observer reliability is good (kappa ≥0.70) after standardised training.

Question 4

How often should BVAS be measured?

Accepted Answer

At each visit during active disease (every 2–4 weeks), and every 1–3 months during maintenance therapy. At least every 6 months in stable remission.