Cryoglobulinemia overview

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2] Ayesha A. Khan, MD [3]

Overview

Cryoglobulinemia is the presence of high amount of heavy globulins (e.g. IgM) in the bloodstream which thicken or gel on exposure to cold. Cryoglobulins are circulating immunoglobulins or proteins that become insoluble at less than 4 degrees Celsius. The reaction is reversible; redissolution occurs at 37 degrees Celsius. Such proteins are called cryoglobulins. Cryoglobulinemia can lead to a medium-sized vessel vasculitis due to vascular deposition of circulating immune complexes. This leads to the triad of palpable purpura, arthralgias and peripheral neuropathy. The relationship of cryoglobulins and hepatitis C infection as well as B cell neoplasia provides an interesting link between infection, autoimmune disease and lymphoproliferative disorders.

Classification

Pathophysiology

Causes

Differentiating cryoglobulinemia from other Diseases

Epidemiology and Demographics

Risk Factors

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Diagnosis

History and Symptoms

Physical Examination

Laboratory Findings

X Ray

CT

MRI

Ultrasound

Other Imaging Findings

Other Diagnostic Findings

Treatment

Medical Therapy

Surgery

Primary Prevention

Secondary Prevention

References

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