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Peripheral neuropathy in essential mixed cryoglobulinemia
F Garcia-Bragado1, J M Fernandez, C Navarro
1Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital General Valle de Hebron, Universidad Autonoma, Barcelona, Spain.
Archives of Neurology
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Essential mixed cryoglobulinemia can cause peripheral neuropathy. This study identified two types: mild distal neuropathy and severe sensorimotor neuropathy or mononeuritis multiplex, often linked to vasculitis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Pathology
Background:
- Essential mixed cryoglobulinemia (EMC) is a systemic autoimmune disease.
- Peripheral neuropathy is a known complication of EMC, but its spectrum and underlying mechanisms require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical and electrophysiological features of peripheral neuropathy in patients with essential mixed cryoglobulinemia.
- To investigate the pathological basis of neuropathy in EMC.
Main Methods:
- Clinical assessment and electrophysiological studies (nerve conduction velocities) were performed on 16 patients with EMC.
- Sural nerve biopsies were analyzed in affected patients.
Main Results:
- Seven out of 16 patients developed peripheral neuropathy.
- Two distinct neuropathy types were observed: mild distal axonal neuropathy and severe sensorimotor polyneuropathy or mononeuritis multiplex.
- Neuropathy was associated with cryoglobulin deposition and, in severe cases, necrotizing vasculitis.
Conclusions:
- Peripheral neuropathy is a significant manifestation of essential mixed cryoglobulinemia.
- Neuropathy in EMC can range from mild axonal damage to severe sensorimotor deficits and mononeuritis multiplex, correlating with vasculitis and cryoglobulin deposition.