Sammendrag

• Refers to the presence of cryoglobulins in the serum. Cryoglobulins are immunoglobulins that reversibly precipitate at temperatures below 37°C (98.6°F).
• Type I cryoglobulinaemia is mostly associated with lymphoproliferative disorders (e.g., Waldenstrom's macroglobulinaemia); types II and III (mixed cryoglobulinaemia) with autoimmune and infectious conditions, particularly with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.
• Clinical presentation includes a triad of purpura, weakness, and arthralgia. Multi-systemic involvement may include the kidneys, liver, and nervous system.
• Diagnosis is based on clinical and laboratory findings. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis is the histological hallmark of mixed cryoglobulinaemia.
• Mixed cryoglobulinaemia secondary to chronic HCV infection includes viral eradication strategies in addition to immunosuppression.