Overview
Cryoglobulinemia is a condition in which abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins clump together in the blood at temperatures below 98.6 F (37 C). These protein clumps can obstruct blood circulation, leading to damage in various parts of the body, such as the skin, joints, nerves, and organs, particularly the kidneys and liver. It is often associated with infections, autoimmune disorders, and certain cancers. Symptoms may include skin lesions, joint pain, peripheral neuropathy, easy bruising, bleeding, fatigue, weight loss, numbness in hands or feet, fever, headache, and shortness of breath.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Symptoms of cryoglobulinemia may include skin lesions, joint pain, peripheral neuropathy, extreme fatigue, weakness, pale skin, chest pain or shortness of breath, headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, cold hands and feet, inflammation or soreness of the tongue, brittle nails, and unusual cravings for non-nutritive substances like ice or dirt, particularly in infants and children with iron deficiency anemia.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing cryoglobulinemia may include your sex, age, and other underlying diseases such as hepatitis C, HIV, multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, lupus, and Sjogren's syndrome. Cryoglobulinemia is more common in women than in men and usually begins in middle age. Other infections, cancers, and autoimmune disorders can also increase the risk of developing cryoglobulinemia.
Development
Cryoglobulinemia is a condition in which abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins clump together at temperatures below 98.6 F (37 C), potentially impeding blood circulation and damaging various organs. The causes of cryoglobulinemia include:
- Infections: Hepatitis C, hepatitis B, HIV, Epstein-Barr, toxoplasmosis, and malaria have been associated with cryoglobulinemia.
- Certain cancers: Blood cancers such as multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia can sometimes cause cryoglobulinemia.
- Autoimmune disorders: Diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren's syndrome can increase the risk of developing cryoglobulinemia. In the case of Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, the disease begins with an abnormal white blood cell that develops mutations in its genetic code. These errors cause the cell to continue multiplying rapidly, leading to an accumulation of cancer cells that overwhelm production of healthy cells in the bone marrow.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if cryoglobulinemia is suspected, especially if you experience symptoms such as skin lesions, joint pain, or peripheral neuropathy. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you suspect hypothermia in someone, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately, as hypothermia can be a life-threatening condition.
Management and Treatment
Complications
The potential complications of cryoglobulinemia include skin lesions, joint pain, peripheral neuropathy, mild liver inflammation (hepatitis), jaundice, anemia, thrombocytopenia, heart problems, complications involving the nervous system, and swollen tonsils.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of cryoglobulinemia, as home remedies alone may not be effective in managing the condition.
Treatment
Treatments for cryoglobulinemia depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Some possible treatments may include:
- Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to manage your symptoms, such as pain relievers for joint pain, or medications to reduce inflammation and manage peripheral neuropathy.
- Heat therapy: Applying warmth to the affected areas can help improve blood circulation and alleviate skin lesions.
- Lifestyle modifications: Follow a nutritious, balanced diet, engage in regular exercise, avoid or limit alcohol consumption, and do not smoke or use illegal drugs.
- Treatment of underlying conditions: If cryoglobulinemia is caused by an underlying condition like hepatitis C or an autoimmune disorder, treating that condition may help manage or even resolve cryoglobulinemia. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for cryoglobulinemia, you should:
- Make the appointment with your primary care provider or a specialist in blood disorders (hematologist), if referred.
- Ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as fasting before having a specific test.
- Prepare a list of your symptoms, key personal information, all medications, vitamins, or supplements you take, and questions to ask your doctor.
- Bring a family member or friend along to help you remember the information provided during the appointment.