ESSENTIAL MIXED CRYOGLOBULINEMIA - A COMPARATIVE-STUDY OF DERMATOLOGICAL MANIFESTATIONS IN PATIENTS INFECTED OR NONINFECTED WITH HEPATITIS-C VIRUS

Background and Design: An association between essential mixed cryoglobulinemia and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been reported. Dermatologic manifestations are a classic presenting complaint in essential mixed cryoglobulinemia. The aim of this study was to compare the frequency and the nature of dermatologic manifestations in essential mixed cryoglobulinemia according to the presence of anti-HCV antibodies. Sixty-two consecutive patients with essential mixed cryoglobulinemia were tested for anti-HCV antibodies. Dermatologic manifestations were systematically assessed. Results: Anti-HCV antibodies were detected in 35 patients. Palpable purpura corresponding histologically to leukocytoclastic vasculitis was the more frequently observed dermatologic manifestation and occurred mainly in HCV-antibody-positive patients. The patients with purpura had significantly higher serum cryoglobulin levels than patients without purpura. Conclusions: The frequency of palpable purpura is higher in HCV-antibody-positive patients and is related to the serum cryoglobulin levels.