[Cryoglobulinemia. Study of 3 cases (2 essential and 1 secondary)]

There patients with diverse skin manifestations of cryoglobulinemia have been investigated. Case number one. An essential mixed cryoglobulinemia with purpuric cutaneous lesions, rheumatoid factor, asthenia and chronic glomerulonephritis. Case number two. A secondary mixed cryoglobulinemia (chronic lymphatic leukemia), with purpuric lesions. Case number three. An essential mixed cryoglobulinemia, with extensive and deep necrotic lesions that necessitated the amputation of the left hand; severe hepatic, renal, and splenic damage by deposit of cryoglobulin. Clinical features, etiopathogenesis and therapeutic possibilities are commented on.