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Peripheral nervous system involvement in essential cryoglobulinemia and nephropathy
G Valli1, A De Vecchi, L Gaddi
1Division of Nephrology, Maggiore Hospital, University of Milan, Italy.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Essential cryoglobulinemia (EC) frequently impacts the peripheral nervous system (PNS), often causing axonal damage. This study highlights the high incidence of PNS involvement in EC patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Medicine
- Pathology
Background:
- Essential cryoglobulinemia (EC) is a condition characterized by the presence of cryoglobulins in the blood.
- Peripheral nervous system (PNS) involvement can be a complication of various systemic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical and neurophysiological features of PNS involvement in patients with essential cryoglobulinemia.
- To determine the incidence and nature of neuropathy in EC.
Main Methods:
- Clinical assessment of 23 patients with essential cryoglobulinemia.
- Neurophysiological studies to evaluate peripheral nerve function.
- Sural nerve biopsy in three patients for histological examination.
Main Results:
- Peripheral neuropathy was diagnosed in 6 patients (WHO criteria).
- Milder PNS involvement was observed in 8 additional patients.
- Overall PNS involvement incidence was high at 60.9%.
- Neurophysiological and histological findings indicated predominantly axonal damage.
Conclusions:
- Essential cryoglobulinemia frequently affects the peripheral nervous system.
- Axonal damage is the primary pathological finding in EC-associated neuropathy.
- Early neurophysiological assessment is crucial for detecting PNS involvement in EC.