Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Cryoglobulinemia overview
Introduction
Overview
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
Classification
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology
Causes
Causes
Differentiating cryoglobulinemia from other Diseases
Differentiating cryoglobulinemia from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
X Ray
CT
MRI
Ultrasound
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Findings
Treatment
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Cafer Zorkun, M.D., Ph.D. [2] Ayesha A. Khan, MD[3]