Why is it called mixed cryoglobulinemia?

Why is it called mixed cryoglobulinemia?

General Discussion. Mixed cryoglobulinemia is a rare disorder characterized by the presence of cryoglobulins in the blood. Cryoglobulins are abnormal proteins that thicken and clump together at cold temperatures, usually below 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (the average human body temperature).

What is the best treatment for cryoglobulinemia?

The mainstay of treatment is corticosteroids with or without other medications depending on the affected organ and the extent of involvement. Another form of treatment decreases the amount of cryoglobulins in the blood.

Why is C4 low in cryoglobulinemia?

Low serum level of complement component 4 (C4) that occurs in mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) may be due to in vivo or ex vivo activation of complement by the classical pathway.

What is cryoglobulinemia caused from?

Hepatitis C is the most common infection associated with cryoglobulinemia. Others include hepatitis B, HIV, Epstein-Barr, toxoplasmosis and malaria. Certain cancers. Some cancers of the blood, such as multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, can sometimes cause cryoglobulinemia.

How does Hep C cause cryoglobulinemia?

Cryoglobulinemia and Hepatitis C The condition most commonly linked with hep C is cryoglobulinemia. This condition is due to the presence of abnormal antibodies (called cryoglobulins) that come from hepatitis C virus stimulation of lymphocytes (white blood cells).

What kind of doctor treats cryoglobulinemia?

Your treatment team may include specialists in blood (hematologists), connective tissue and arthritis (rheumatologists), liver diseases (hepatologists), the nervous system (neurologists), the kidneys (nephrologists), and other areas as needed.

How do I get rid of cryoglobulinemia?

Cryoglobulinemia is commonly treated with corticosteroids such as prednisone, and medications that suppress the immune system. Antiviral drugs are prescribed when HCV is present. Left untreated, the disease can cause permanent tissue and organ damage, so it is important to seek prompt medical care when symptoms appear.

What specialist treats cryoglobulinemia?

Can cryoglobulinemia go away?

As hepatitis C goes away, the cryoglobulins will disappear in about one half of all people over the next 12 months. Your provider will continue to monitor the cryoglobulins after treatment. Severe cryoglobulinemia vasculitis involves vital organs or large areas of skin.

Can cryoglobulinemia be cured?

What is Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis?

Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis occurs when the body makes a mix of abnormal immune system proteins called cryoglobulins. At temperatures less than 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit (normal body temperature), cryoglobulins become solid or gel-like and can block blood vessels. This causes a variety of health problems.