Published in

SAGE Publications, Annals of Clinical Biochemistry, 6(44), p. 566-569, 2007

DOI: 10.1258/000456307782268138

Links

Tools

Export citation

Search in Google Scholar

A case study of mixed cryoglobulinaemia associated with peripheral neuropathy

Journal article published in 2007 by R. D. Wheeler, H. Sharma ORCID, M. Groves, D. Wren, J. Sheldon
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

Full text: Download

Green circle
Preprint: archiving allowed
Green circle
Postprint: archiving allowed
Red circle
Published version: archiving forbidden
Data provided by SHERPA/RoMEO

Abstract

The clinical diagnosis of mixed cryoglobulinaemia is difficult due to heterogeneity in presentation. Symptoms include the classical triad of purpura, arthralgia and weakness, with one or more other organs involved. We discuss a case of cryoglobulinaemia that presented with sensory motor neuropathy and with features of mononeuritis multiplex syndrome, but which lacked other classical features. Laboratory testing revealed a profile typical of mixed cryoglobulins: immunoglobulin M (IgM) paraprotein, low fourth carbon (C4) and positive rheumatoid factor. Subsequent investigations failed to reveal an underlying infectious or neoplastic cause. This case demonstrates the need to include cryoglobulinaemia in the differential diagnosis for peripheral neuropathy, and the critical importance of using the correct collection procedure to isolate cryoglobulins.