Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Churg-Strauss Syndrome, now formally known as Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), is a rare form of systemic vasculitis that causes inflammation of the blood vessels. While older medical literature frequently uses the eponymous term Churg-Strauss Syndrome, modern clinical practice has shifted to the name EGPA to better reflect the disease's underlying pathology involving eosinophils and granulomas. Why does Churg-Strauss Syndrome have multiple names? The transition from Churg-Strauss Syndrome to Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) occurred to align with the 2012 Chapel Hill Consensus Conference nomenclature, which seeks to use names that describe the specific disease processes rather than relying on eponyms.
Churg-Strauss Syndrome, now formally known as Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), is a rare form of systemic vasculitis that causes inflammation of the blood vessels. While older medical literature frequently uses the eponymous term Churg-Strauss Syndrome, modern clinical practice has shifted to the name EGPA to better reflect the disease's underlying pathology involving eosinophils and granulomas.
The transition from Churg-Strauss Syndrome to Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA) occurred to align with the 2012 Chapel Hill Consensus Conference nomenclature, which seeks to use names that describe the specific disease processes rather than relying on eponyms. This shift helps clinicians and patients globally by providing a more standardized, descriptive definition of the condition.
You may encounter various terms in older medical records or international literature. Common synonyms and historical designations for Churg-Strauss Syndrome include:
Major medical databases utilize specific codes to track Churg-Strauss Syndrome. In the ICD-10, it is classified under M30.1. Orphanet identifies the condition as ORPHA:139, and it is tracked in the OMIM database under entry #234700. Understanding these codes is helpful when discussing your medical history with specialists or accessing international research data.
Yes, though naming conventions may vary slightly by region. While Churg-Strauss Syndrome remains widely recognized by name in both clinical and patient communities—including the 126 individuals currently connected through DiseaseMaps.org—most modern peer-reviewed journals and diagnostic guidelines now mandate the use of EGPA. Using the term EGPA in your medical records can often facilitate clearer communication with specialists and insurance providers.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.