Cryoglobulinemia

A Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Tumor Presenting as a Mixed Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis

Background

Mixed cryoglobulinemia syndrome (MCS) is a rare entity with a variety of causes but has not been associated with testicular germ cell tumors. We present here a case of a patient with a nonseminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) presenting as a type III mixed cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Case Presentation. A 58-year-old male exhibited typical clinical features of vasculitis, including weakness, fatigue, palpable purpura, multiple mononeuropathy, and a low C4 level. An MCS diagnosis was confirmed by the presence of cryoglobulins (6%) with polyclonal IgM and IgG components and biopsy proven leukocytoclastic vasculitis. Concomitantly, a stage IIIC (TxNxM1bS1) germ tumor with marked elevation of serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (2764 mUI/mL) was diagnosed. An aggressive treatment was needed, including methylprednisolone pulses, plasmapheresis, rituximab, followed by orchiectomy, and chemotherapy (bleomycin/etoposide/cisplatin). After tumor resection and treatment, cryoglobulins decrease to 0%, suggesting a paraneoplastic origin of the vasculitis.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of MCS possibly attributable to a NSGCT. This case further elaborates on the presentation of mixed cryoglobulinemia vasculitis and adds to the published literature on the topic.

Neurologic manifestations associated with cryoglobulinemia: A single center experience

INTRODUCTION

Limited information is available describing the spectrum of neurological complications of cryoglobulinemia.

METHODS

Single center retrospective review of patients with neurologic symptoms and elevated serum cryoglobulins, with their potential association being classified as definite, possible, or unlikely using defined criteria.

RESULTS

Among 492 patients, 131 (87 classified as definite and 44 as possible) had neurologic symptoms associated with cryoglobulinemia. Common comorbidities included hepatitis C (N = 43), monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (N = 20), Sjogren's syndrome (N = 17), membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (N = 17), and systemic lupus erythematosus (N = 10). Features supporting an association between cryoglobulinemia and neurological symptoms were the presence of purpura (p < .001), positive rheumatoid factor (p = .001) and low C4 (p = .002). Common peripheral neurological diagnoses were symmetric polyneuropathy (N = 84), small fiber neuropathy (N = 25), and mononeuritis multiplex (N = 16). Central neurological manifestations were infrequent and included seizures (N = 3), posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (N = 2), intracerebral hemorrhage (N = 1), vasculitis (N = 1), rapidly progressive dementia (N = 1), lymphoma (N = 1), and myelitis/meningitis (N = 1). Treatments utilized included corticosteroids (N = 74), rituximab (N = 42), cyclophosphamide (N = 27), methotrexate, azathioprine, or mycophenolate mofetil (N = 28), anti-viral therapy (N = 20), plasmapheresis (N = 16), and intravenous immunoglobulin (N = 20). Neurologic symptoms associated with cryoglobulinemia remained stable or improved in 86% of patients.

CONCLUSION

This study describes a wide spectrum of patients with neurologic symptoms attributed to cryoglobulinemia and provides a framework to approach this challenging diagnosis.

Different biochemical patterns in type II and type III mixed cryoglobulinemia in HCV positive patients

BACKGROUND

Reversible cryoprecipitability of proteins is observed as a concomitant feature of immune complex formation. Mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) is systemic vasculitis, associated with mixed IgM and IgG cryoglobulins (CGs) showing rheumatoid factor (RF) activity. It is frequently associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV). This study investigates the presence of IgG RF and anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) in cryoprecipitates of patients with type III and type II MC, to understand the biochemical patterns associated with different types of MC to a greater degree.

METHODS

Sera from 70 HCV untreated patients with type III or type II MC were tested by immunofixation for IgG3 and through ELISA for IgG RF. Cryoprecipitates were analysed for ANA by indirect immunofluorescence to identify specific patterns.

RESULTS

After stratification according to MC type, the ANA patterns between type II and type III MC were statistically different. IgG3 levels and IgG-RF positivity were significantly higher in type III cryoprecipitate. We observed a higher positivity of IgG3 and a significant difference between the liver fibrosis stage, ANA and IgG-RF in the cryoprecipitate.

CONCLUSION

Results show a combination of biochemical markers and autoantibodies associated to mixed cryoglobulinemia; these findings could be further investigated in order to ascertain their usefulness in assessing the risk for the development of mixed cryoglobulinemia.

Monoclonal immunoglobulin-associated proliferative glomerulonephritis characterized by organized deposits of striated ultra-substructures: A case report

We herein report the case of a 64-year-old male who presented with progressive glomerulonephritis notable for organized and striated ultra-substructures. The patient was diagnosed with hypertension and proteinuria 3 years prior to admission and subsequently developed nephrotic syndrome and impairment of renal function. Laboratory tests did not reveal any evidence of infections or autoimmune diseases. Monoclonal gammopathy was not detected in serum or urine, although a small population of abnormal plasma cell clones was detected by flow cytometry. A renal biopsy showed mesangial and endocapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis with lobular accentuation, accompanied with focal and segmental double-contour formation. Additionally, moderate tubulointerstitial scarring and arteriosclerosis were noted. Immunofluorescence staining revealed positive staining for IgG, IgM, C3, C1q, and fibrinogen. IgG subclass and light chain staining showed restricted positivity for IgG1κ. Electron microscopy demonstrated massive amounts of subendothelial deposits with a fibrillary and branching profile. At higher magnification, a periodic striated pattern was observed within the microfilament-like structures. Immunohistochemical staining was negative for myoglobin, laminin, and collagens (type III and IV). Steroid and antihypertensive therapy did not show improvement in renal function. The second biopsy performed 2 years later revealed a similar lobular proliferative glomerulonephritis pattern with more extensive tubulointerstitial damage, indicating poor response to immunosuppressive therapy. The patient progressed to end-stage renal disease and required hemodialysis. We discuss the possible origins of the deposits with unusual substructures observed in this case.

Analysis, detection and quantitation of mixed cryoglobulins in HCV infection: brief review and case examples

Considering the high incidence of cryoglobulins in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection together with the high worldwide prevalence of HCV infection, identification of clinically apparent mixed cryoglobulinemia syndrome is increasingly important as most patients who are identified can now be successfully treated. Different approaches for the detection, analysis and reporting of cryoglobulins have been described and there is a wide variation in results reported, ranging from a qualitative "negative" or "positive", to a quantitative report including cryoglobulin type and the total protein. Protein and immunofixation (IFE) electrophoresis are generally used to identify and characterize cryoglobulins, as these methods quantify and phenotype. Here, we present a brief review of the literature and demonstrate a case oriented approach for identifying mixed cryoglobulinemia from the preanalytical phase, leading up to and including the analytical phase with characterization by IFE. Most patients with mixed cryoglobulinemia can now be treated with success. Nevertheless, the high cost may limit treatment of those with symptoms unless there is laboratory evidence for mixed cryoglubulinemia. Low levels of cryoglobulins can be associated with severe symptoms; as a result, accurate identification of cryoglobulins may be of increasing importance since clear identification may be a good reason to initiate treatment.

Cryoglobulin Test and Cryoglobulinemia Hepatitis C-Virus Related

Cryoglobulins are immunoglobulins that precipitate in serum at temperatures below 37°C and resolubilize upon warming. The clinical syndrome of cryoglobulinemia usually includes purpura, weakness, and arthralgia, but the underlying disease may also contribute other symptoms. Blood samples for cryoglobulin are collected, transported, clotted and spun at 37°C, before the precipitate is allowed to form when serum is stored at 4°C in a Wintrobe tube for at least seven days. The most critical and confounding factor affecting the cryoglobulin test is when the preanalytical phase is not fully completed at 37°C. The easiest way to quantify cryoglobulins is the cryocrit estimate. However, this approach has low accuracy and sensitivity. Furthermore, the precipitate should be resolubilized by warming to confirm that it is truly formed of cryoglobulins. The characterization of cryoglobulins requires the precipitate is several times washed, before performing immunofixation, a technique by which cryoglobulins can be classified depending on the characteristics of the detected immunoglobulins. These features imply a pathogenic role of these molecules which are consequently associated with a wide range of symptoms and manifestations. According to the Brouet classification, Cryoglobulins are grouped into three types by the immunochemical properties of immunoglobulins in the cryoprecipitate. The aim of this paper is to review the major aspects of cryoglobulinemia and the laboratory techniques used to detect and characterize cryoglobulins, taking into consideration the presence and consequences of cryoglobulinemia in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection.

Immunotactoid Glomerulopathy and Cryoglobulinemic Nephropathy: Two Entities with Many Similarities. A Unified Conceptual Approach

Immunotactoid glomerulopathy is a rare disorder that has been characterized at the ultrastructural level. Due to its rarity, there are few comprehensive studies relating to this disorder. Electron microscopy essentially characterizes this disease. The glomerular electron dense deposits which are typical of this condition consist of aggregates of highly organized microtubular structures of various diameters, but generally measuring 30-50 nm in width with a propensity to dispose themselves in parallel bundles intersecting in different planes. This study compares a large series of patients with cryoglobulinemic nephropathy with a series of patients with immunotactoid glomerulopathy to address whether there may be similarities that warrant considering these two entities part of a spectrum. This study reviews the clinicopathologic features of both entities and emphasizes ultrastructural findings that characterize them. Significant immunomorphologic overlap was found when these two disorders were compared in this study. There were also striking similarities in clinical presentation/behavior, laboratory findings and prognosis. Proteomic analysis has also demonstrated similar spectra for both entities. We postulate that immunotactoid glomerulopathy and cryoglobulinemic nephropathy are part of the spectrum of renal manifestations in patients with circulating cryoglobulins and renal disease.

Device or ice: the effect of consistent cooling using a device compared with intermittent cooling using an ice bag after total knee arthroplasty

Purpose : To determine the comparative effectiveness of consistent cooling using an icing device (DonJoy Iceman, DJO Canada, Mississauga, ON) versus intermittent cooling using an ice bag (usual care) for the first 48 hours after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Method : A sample of 78 patients (intervention group, n=37; control group, n=34) undergoing primary TKA were randomized to intervention (device) or control (ice) groups. The primary outcome was pain intensity, measured by numerical pain rating scale (NPRS). Secondary outcomes were passive range of motion (PROM), nausea or vomiting, opioid use, blood loss, lower limb function, hospital length of stay, and patient-reported compliance and satisfaction. Results : No significant differences in the primary outcome (pain intensity measured via NPRS) were observed between control and intervention groups. Patients in the intervention group were significantly more satisfied (8.4 vs. 6.0, p=0.002); used the device more consistently, day and night (85.7% vs. 29.6% and 87.6% vs. 30.8%, respectively, p<0.001); and were more likely to recommend this method of cooling (96.8% vs. 68.0%, p=0.004). Conclusion : The study found no additional benefit of consistent cryotherapy using the icing device over intermittent ice bags on postoperative pain, PROM, nausea or vomiting, opioid use, blood loss, lower limb function, or length of stay, despite significant differences in patient-reported compliance and satisfaction.

The correlation between antiphospholipid syndrome and cryoglobulinemia: case series of 4 patients and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Cryoglobulinemia is an immune-complex-mediated small vessel vasculitis that classically involves the skin, kidneys and peripheral nerves. Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune hypercoagulable disorder which causes blood vessel thrombosis. It can present as a multi-organ microthrombotic disorder which is called catastrophic APS.

OBJECTIVE

In this case series we aim to describe the diagnostic and management challenges that arise when these two severe disorders simultaneously present in the same patient.

METHODS

We describe four patients who were admitted to our hospital due to multi-organ life threatening damage mediated by cryoglobulinemic vasculitis with concurrent APS.

RESULTS

Clinical manifestations included leg ulcers, livedo reticularis, renal failure, and peripheral neuropathy. Suggested etiologies for the combined syndromes were hepatitis C, systemic lupus erythematosus and myeloproliferative disease rectal maltoma. All of our patients were treated with anticoagulation, high-dose corticosteroids, rituximab, intravenous gammaglobulins and plasma exchange.

CONCLUSION

The rare association of severe or catastrophic APS with cryoglobulinemia in patients should be considered by physicians who treat patients with multi-organ ischemia or necrosis.

The many faces of cryoglobulinemic nephropathy: a clinico-pathologic study of 47 cases with emphasis on the value of electron microscopy

The clinical and pathologic manifestations of cryoglobulinemic nephropathy (CN) are heterogeneous. The role that electron microscopy plays in the diagnosis of CN has not been properly evaluated. The main objective of this study was to define the value of ultrastructural evaluation in the diagnosis of CN. Although most of the CN cases in this series exhibited glomerular pathology with a membranoproliferative pattern, a significant number of the cases showed less well-defined morphologic patterns on light microscopic examination (i.e. mesangial proliferation, hyaline thrombi in glomerular capillaries without significant cellular proliferation, exudative glomerulonephritis, etc). Immunofluorescence microscopy also revealed variable immunoglobulin and complement component patterns, some with "full-house" expression of immunoreactants. A subset of these CN cases was associated with light chain restriction. Thus, differential diagnosis can be a challenge as many other glomerulonephritis overlap in immunomorphologic characteristics. Because the immunomorphologic manifestations of CN are so varied, confirmation of a suspected diagnosis of CN or making a diagnosis in a less than a typical immunomorphologic setting required careful ultrastructural evaluation to find unequivocal diagnostic findings or at least supportive evidence in the form of detection of substructure in the electron dense glomerular deposits consistent with cryoglobulins. Even in cases where the light and immunofluorescence findings in suspicious clinical situations were quite consistent with CN, electron microscopy provided the final proof to substantiate the diagnosis in the great majority of the cases.

A randomized controlled trial of rituximab for the treatment of severe cryoglobulinemic vasculitis

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a long-term, prospective, randomized controlled trial evaluating rituximab (RTX) therapy for severe mixed cryoglobulinemia or cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV).

METHODS

Fifty-nine patients with CV and related skin ulcers, active glomerulonephritis, or refractory peripheral neuropathy were enrolled. In CV patients who also had hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, treatment of the HCV infection with antiviral agents had previously failed or was not indicated. Patients were randomized to the non-RTX group (to receive conventional treatment, consisting of 1 of the following 3: glucocorticoids; azathioprine or cyclophosphamide; or plasmapheresis) or the RTX group (to receive 2 infusions of 1 gm each, with a lowering of the glucocorticoid dosage when possible, and with a second course of RTX at relapse). Patients in the non-RTX group who did not respond to treatment could be switched to the RTX group. Study duration was 24 months.

RESULTS

Survival of treatment at 12 months (i.e., the proportion of patients who continued taking their initial therapy), the primary end point, was statistically higher in the RTX group (64.3% versus 3.5% [P < 0.0001]), as well as at 3 months (92.9% versus 13.8% [P < 0.0001]), 6 months (71.4% versus 3.5% [P < 0.0001]), and 24 months (60.7% versus 3.5% [P < 0.0001]). The Birmingham Vasculitis Activity Score decreased only after treatment with RTX (from a mean ± SD of 11.9 ± 5.4 at baseline to 7.1 ± 5.7 at month 2; P < 0.001) up to month 24 (4.4 ± 4.6; P < 0.0001). RTX appeared to be superior therapy for all 3 target organ manifestations, and it was as effective as conventional therapy. The median duration of response to RTX was 18 months. Overall, RTX treatment was well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

RTX monotherapy represents a very good option for severe CV and can be maintained over the long term in most patients.

A randomized controlled trial of rituximab following failure of antiviral therapy for hepatitis C virus-associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis

OBJECTIVE

To perform a randomized controlled trial of rituximab in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated mixed cryoglobulinemic vasculitis.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial of rituximab (375 mg/ m(2) /week for 4 weeks) compared to the best available therapy (maintenance or increase in immunosuppressive therapy) for HCV-associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis in patients in whom antiviral therapy had failed to induce remission. The primary end point was disease remission at 6 months from study entry.

RESULTS

A total of 24 patients were enrolled (12 in each treatment group). Baseline disease activity and organ involvement were similar in the two groups. Ten patients in the rituximab group (83%) were in remission at study month 6, as compared with 1 patient in the control group (8%), a result that met the criterion for stopping the study (P < 0.001). The median duration of remission for rituximab-treated patients who reached the primary end point was 7 months. No adverse effects of rituximab on HCV plasma viremia or on hepatic transaminase levels were observed.

CONCLUSION

Rituximab was a well-tolerated and effective treatment in patients with HCV-associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis in whom antiviral therapy failed to induce remission.

Renal diseases with organized deposits: an algorithmic approach to classification and clinicopathologic diagnosis

CONTEXT

Most renal diseases with organized deposits are relatively uncommon conditions, and proper pathologic characterization determines the specific diagnosis. Different entities with specific clinical correlates have been recognized, and their correct diagnosis has an impact on patient management, treatment options, and determination of prognosis.

OBJECTIVE

The diagnosis of these conditions depends on careful evaluation of the findings by light microscopy together with immunofluorescence and electron microscopy. The objective of this manuscript is to delineate an algorithmic approach helpful in the pathologic assessment of these conditions at the light microscopic level. In some diseases, the immunomorphologic parameters short of electron microscopy provide solid information to suggest or make a definitive diagnosis. Nevertheless, electron microscopy plays a crucial role, because the criteria to separate these entities often are heavily influenced by the electron microscopic findings. Accepted diagnostic criteria for each of these conditions are discussed.

DESIGN

Information used for this manuscript is gathered from published data and the authors' experience.

RESULTS

The most common of these conditions is amyloidosis, which may account for as many as 5% to 8% of all renal biopsies in some renal pathology practices. Fibrillary, immunotactoid, and cryoglobulinemic glomerulopathies together represent, at most, 1% of all renal biopsies performed for medical renal diseases. Diabetic fibrillosis also is uncommon. Glomerulopathies associated with fibronectin deposits and collagenofibrotic glomerulopathy are extremely rare.

CONCLUSIONS

A systematic, algorithmic approach to the evaluation of the renal biopsies from patients with these disorders is very helpful to rule out certain conditions in the early stages of the evaluation of the biopsies. However, it is not uncommon for the final definitive diagnosis to be reached only after electron microscopic evaluation.

Cryoglobulin evaluation: best practice?

Cryoglobulins are serum immunoglobulins that precipitate at temperatures below 37 degrees C and re-dissolve on warming. Cryoglobulinaemia leads to variable symptoms including characteristic purpura, ischaemia of extremities, renal failure, peripheral neuropathy, abdominal pain secondary to intestinal ischaemia and arthralgias. Cryoglobulin testing is underutilized in clinical practice. It has been neglected in clinical laboratories and by clinicians due to several factors, such as the length of time it takes for serum cryoglobulin analysis to be performed in the laboratory, the perceived difficulty in getting optimal sampling conditions and a failure to appreciate that even apparently low levels of cryoglobulin can be associated with severe symptoms in some patients. The most important variable confounding standardization of cryoglobulin testing is improper sample handling. A recent report critically appraising the current practice of cryoglobulin evaluation in 137 laboratories in Europe by United Kingdom National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS) illustrated the wide variability in practice. Although many clinical laboratories perform cryoglobulin evaluation, there are widespread differences in the methodology used and the care with which this is carried out and this leads to considerable intralaboratory and interlaboratory variability. The most common sources of error are false-negative results due to loss of cryoprecipitate during transport and storage. Better standardization is needed to avoid missed diagnoses and improve the comparability of results. Laboratories should ensure that sample temperature is maintained at 37 degrees C until the serum is separated. In this article, we briefly review the classification and clinical features of cryoglobulins and suggest best practice guidelines for laboratory detection and identification of cryoglobulins.

Current status on B-cell depletion therapy in autoimmune diseases other than rheumatoid arthritis

Since the approval of the chimeric anti-CD20 antibody rituximab for the treatment of adults with severe-to-moderate rheumatoid arthritis after an inadequate response to TNF blockade, B-cell depletion therapy has been used for the treatment of a broad range of refractory autoimmune disorders. Based on current experiences and a literature search, a systematic review and evaluation of the current status of B-cell depletion therapy in autoimmune diseases other than rheumatoid arthritis, including rheumatic, nephrologic, dermatologic and neurologic autoimmune entities, was performed by an international group of experts based at several academic centres. Although important questions remain about the value and place of B-cell depletion in autoimmune diseases other than RA, preliminary data indicate the value of this therapeutic approach in otherwise refractory patients. However, given the lack of robust data from large randomised controlled trials, anti-CD20 therapy should be considered on an individual basis in otherwise refractory patients and its use based on a risk/benefit net calculation.

Cryoglobulinemia and glomerular rhomboid inclusions in a child with acute kidney injury

Cryoglobulinemia is rarely reported in children, and kidney failure secondary to cryoglobulinemia is even more uncommon. We report the case of a 7-year-old boy with cryoglobulins and a systemic illness, including persistent fever, arthralgias, rash, hypocomplementemia, and acute kidney injury associated with nephritic urine sediment. An extensive workup showed no infectious, neoplastic, or rheumatological cause of his kidney injury. The kidney biopsy specimen showed membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 1 with electron microscopic evidence of rhomboid crystalloid inclusions. These inclusions have rarely been reported in adult patients with cryoglobulinemia. The patient underwent spontaneous remission, including full recovery of kidney function, and required no immune suppression. The patient's course is consistent with cryoglobulinemia-associated kidney injury, which supports the inclusion of essential cryoglobulinemia in the differential diagnosis of pediatric patients with hypocomplementemic glomerulonephritis.

Persisting mixed cryoglobulinemia in Chikungunya infection

BACKGROUND

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), an arbovirus, is responsible for a two-stage disabling disease, consisting of an acute febrile polyarthritis for the first 10 days, frequently followed by chronic rheumatisms, sometimes lasting for years. Up to now, the pathophysiology of the chronic stage has been elusive. Considering the existence of occasional peripheral vascular disorders and some unexpected seronegativity during the chronic stage of the disease, we hypothesized the role of cryoglobulins.

METHODS

From April 2005 to May 2007, all travelers with suspected CHIKV infection were prospectively recorded in our hospital department. Demographic, clinical and laboratory findings (anti-CHIKV IgM and IgG, cryoglobulin) were registered at the first consultation or hospitalization and during follow-up.

RESULTS

Among the 66 travelers with clinical suspicion of CHIKV infection, 51 presented anti-CHIKV IgM. There were 45 positive with the serological assay tested at room temperature, and six more, which first tested negative when sera were kept at 4 degrees C until analysis, became positive after a 2-hour incubation of the sera at 37 degrees C. Forty-eight of the 51 CHIKV-seropositive patients were screened for cryoglobulinemia; 94% were positive at least once during their follow-up. Over 90% of the CHIKV-infected patients had concomitant arthralgias and cryoglobulinemia. Cryoglobulin prevalence and level drop with time as patients recover, spontaneously or after short-term corticotherapy. In some patients cryoglobulins remained positive after 1 year.

CONCLUSION

Prevalence of mixed cryoglobulinemia was high in CHIKV-infected travelers with long-lasting symptoms. No significant association between cryoglobulinemia and clinical manifestations could be evidenced. The exact prognostic value of cryoglobulin levels has yet to be determined. Responsibility of cryoglobulinemia was suspected in unexpected false negativity of serological assays at room temperature, leading us to recommend performing serology on pre-warmed sera.

Inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies and neuropathies associated with monoclonal gammopathies: treatment update

This review focuses on recent data regarding inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies and neuropathies associated with monoclonal gammopathies. We describe both acute and chronic inflammatory neuropathies, and we discuss conditions ranging from mostly cell-mediated to antibody-mediated disorders. These diseases are characterized by proximal and distal sensory motor involvement. Treatments are based on immune-modulation and/or immune-suppression. Work-up sequence and therapeutical modes are discussed in the light of recently published data, with a special interest on new treatment modalities.

Hepatitis C virus infection, mixed cryoglobulinemia and BLyS upregulation: targeting the infectious trigger, the autoimmune response, or both?

Mixed cryoglobulinemia syndrome (MCsn) is a systemic vasculitis prevalently mediated by immune complexes, i.e., mixed cryoglobulins, and characterized by non-neoplastic B-cell lymphoproliferation favouring the progression into frank B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in 5-10% of patients. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is the etiologic agent in the large majority of MCsn cases and chronic antigenic stimulation by HCV is considered a key mechanism sustaining the proliferation of the RF-secreting B-cell clones. Besides chronic antigenic stimulation, cytokines and growth factors may also play a key role in sustaining B-cell overactivation. B-lymphocyte stimulator (BlyS) was recently described as a critical survival factor for B cells, promoting their activation and maturation. Abnormal production of BLyS alters immune tolerance by allowing the survival of autoreactive B cells, thus triggering autoimmune disorders. BLyS inhibits B-cell apoptosis, and B-cell apoptosis is implicated in the pathogenesis of MCsn, as well as of other autoimmune diseases. Both antiviral therapy and B- cell depletive therapy in MCsn may influence BlyS expression. Antiviral therapy, monotherapy against biologic targets downstream viral infection, or the combination of the two, should be optimized in the single patient and stage of the disease, based on disease pathobiology, efficacy and safety issues.

TLR4 links podocytes with the innate immune system to mediate glomerular injury

Toll-like receptors (TLR) classically recognize pathogen-associated danger signals but are also activated via endogenous ligands. For evaluation of their role in inflammatory kidney disease, the function of TLR was analyzed in two mouse models of cryoglobulinemic membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN; mice transgenic for thymic stromal lymphopoietin [TSLP], with or without deletion of the Fcgamma receptor IIb). Expression of TLR1 through 9 and TLR11 mRNA was detectable in whole kidneys and in isolated glomeruli of wild-type mice, with TLR3 and TLR4 having the highest absolute levels of expression. TLR1, 2, and 4 were increased in TSLP transgenic mice and even higher in TSLP transgenic FcgammaRIIb-deficient mice. TLR5 through 9 and 11 were upregulated to similar degrees in TSLP transgenic and TSLP transgenic FcgammaRIIb-deficient mice. Immunohistochemical studies of nephritic glomeruli localized TLR4 protein to podocytes. Cultured podocytes also expressed TLR4, and stimulation with TLR4-specific ligands resulted in a marked induction of chemokines; this was reduced by specific knockdown of TLR4 with siRNA. Fibrinogen, a potential endogenous TLR4 ligand, was shown to induce a similar profile of chemokines. In conclusion, it was demonstrated that TLR4 is constitutively expressed by podocytes and is upregulated in MPGN, where it may mediate glomerular injury by modulating expression of chemokines; therefore, TLR4 may link podocytes with the innate immune system to mediate MPGN triggered by the deposition of immune complexes.

Cryoglobulinemia

Cryoglobulinemia refers to the presence in serum of immunoglobulins that precipitate at a cold temperature. Type I cryoglobulins are single monoclonal immunoglobulins usually associated with haematological disorders. Types II and III are mixed cryoglobulins, composed of monoclonal or polyclonal IgM respectively, having rheumatoid factor activity that bind to polyclonal immunoglobulins. Mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) syndrome is a consequence of immune-complex mediated vasculitis and is characterized by a typical clinical triad: purpura, weakness, arthralgias; many organs particularly kidney and peripheral nervous system may be involved. MC may be associated with infectious and systemic disorders and since 1990 studies have demonstrated that hepatitis C virus (HCV) may be considered the principal trigger of the disease. The relation between MC and HCV infection shows new insights in the interpretation of the link between viral infection, autoimmune phenomena and lymphoproliferative disorders evolution. In fact, the virus chronically stimulates B-cell polyclonal proliferation from which a monoclonal population may emerge. In symptomatic patients with HCV related MC therapeutic strategy should include an attempt at viral eradication. Antiviral therapy may also be effective in determining the regression of B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. Rituximab could represent a safe and effective alternative to standard immunosuppression and exerts selective B-cell control.

Development of acute inflammatory arthritis by granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor during autologous stem cell transplantation for cryoglobulinemia

Hematopoietic growth factors (HGFs) are now known to influence the function of mature myeloid cells as well as their traditional roles as regulators of hematopoiesis. It became apparent that they could take part in inflammatory and immune responses by activating monocytes/macrophages to release mediators of such responses. We describe a 53-year-old male who developed acute inflammatory arthritis by granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) following autologous stem cell transplantation for cryoglobulinemia. Arthritis improved dramatically soon after GM-CSF was withdrawn and steroid therapy was admitted. This case may lead to further attention for this potential problem since HGFs are frequently used in a variety of clinical settings.

Effect of endothelins on human neutrophil activation by immune complexes

Neutrophils are important effector cells of tissue injury in several pathological conditions, among them, immune complexes (IC)-induced inflammation and tissue injury. There is evidence that endothelins modulate IC-induced tissue injury in experimental models in vivo. In the present study we investigated the effect of endothelins on neutrophil activation by IC in vitro. To this purpose, pre-formed insoluble immune complexes were used to stimulate human neutrophils and production of leukotriene B(4) (LTB(4)) and hydrogen peroxyde (H(2)O(2)) were measured as indicative of phospholipase A(2) and oxidative burst activation and myeloperoxidase (MPO) release as indicative of cell degranulation. The effect of endothelins (ETs) in these events induced by IC was then examined. We found that IC stimulated all three events in human neutrophils. Addition of ET-1 but not ET-2 or ET-3 to the IC-stimulated neutrophils potentiated LTB(4) but not H(2)O(2) production. The endothelins added to resting neutrophils did not induce LTB(4) production but they were effective to stimulate H(2)O(2) production. The increased MPO activity induced by IC was not affected by endothelins nor did they stimulate the release of this enzyme in resting cells. These results show that endothelins are able to activate some neutrophil functions and to upregulate the IC-induced production of the pro-inflammatory molecule LTB(4). These data indicate that products of endothelial cells, such as endothelins, can be involved in the potentiation of neutrophil-dependent tissue injury.

Rituximab treatment for glomerulonephritis in HCV-associated mixed cryoglobulinaemia: efficacy and safety in the absence of steroids

OBJECTIVE

Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody, has been used in lupus nephritis and membranous idiopathic nephropathy and has proved effective in non-renal manifestations of type II mixed cryoglobulinaemia (MC) syndrome. We investigated the possible efficacy and safety of rituximab in the treatment of cryoglobulinaemic nephritis.

METHODS

Five patients with active, biopsy-proven, glomerulonephritis in hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related type II MC syndrome were treated with four weekly infusions of rituximab (375 mg/m2) in monotherapy, without steroids whenever possible. Rituximab was the first-line therapy in three cases.

RESULTS

A rapid and sustained renal response was observed in all patients, in one of them without retreatment up to the last follow-up (month 21+). Renal biopsy was repeated after 6 months in one patient and histopathological improvement was documented. Three patients relapsed, at months +5, +7 and +12 of follow-up, respectively. Two of them were then retreated with rituximab and again presented a rapid improvement in renal function. Maintenance therapy with rituximab was performed in two patients: nephritis remission was maintained in both. Fc-gamma receptor 3a (FcgammaRIIIa) genotype characterization was consistent with the clinical response observed. Rituximab also proved effective against other active MC manifestations, when present. No major side-effects occurred and steroids were not required in the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Rituximab may provide effective and safe therapy in type II MC-related glomerulonephritis, possibly as first-line therapy, avoiding steroids and hazardous immunosuppressive treatment.

Neurological aspects of multiple myeloma and related disorders

The spectrum of neurologic complications of multiple myeloma (MM) and related conditions is as diverse as the conditions themselves. Complications range from direct compression (radiculopathy, spinal cord compression, base-of-the-skull tumor) to the infiltrative (amyloid, peripheral neuropathies, and numb chin syndrome of myeloma), the metabolic (slowed mentation from hyperviscosity, hypercalcemia, or uremia), and to autoimmune or cytokine-mediated (peripheral neuropathy). The two most common presentations are the compressive radiculopathy one sees in multiple myeloma and the peripheral neuropathies associated with many of the other disorders. The authors will review the neurologic complications of MM, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM), POEMS syndrome, amyloidosis, and cryoglobulinemia.

Cutaneous Vasculitis in the Course of Hematologic Malignancies

BACKGROUND

In patients with hematologic malignancies, cutaneous vasculitis is an important manifestation which may be secondary either to the malignancy itself or to many frequent events in these patients such as infections or drug intake.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the underlying events responsible for cutaneous vasculitis in patients with hematologic malignancies.

METHODS

Twenty-three patients with hematologic malignancies who had a skin biopsy in a single institution between January 1990 and June 1995 disclosing vasculitis were included in this study. Clinical, biological and immunological data, infectious enquiry and drug exposure were reviewed.

RESULTS

The 23 patients represented 22% of 95 patients with hematologic malignancies in whom 105 skin biopsies were done. A lymphoproliferative disorder was found in 12/23 (52%) and a myeloproliferative disease in 11/23 (48%). The cutaneous vasculitis developed concomitantly with the malignancy in 39%, before in 26% and after the diagnosis of malignancy in 35%. The hematologic condition seemed to be the sole cause for vasculitis in 61% of the patients while the vasculitis could be attributed to another mechanism than the hematologic malignancy itself in 39%. These consisted in infections, medication and mixed cryoglobulinemia in 13% each.

CONCLUSION

Cutaneous vasculitis constitutes a symptom developing in association with hematologic malignancy and may follow, accompany and also precede the condition. However, search for other triggering factors such as infection, drugs and cryoglobulinemia is required since they are the culprits of the vasculitis in 39% of cases.

Hepatitis C‐associated cryoglobulinaemia presenting with refractory hypertensive crisis and acute pulmonary oedema

We report two elderly women who presented with hypertensive crisis and acute pulmonary oedema, which responded poorly to antihypertensive therapy. The patients were later diagnosed as having hepatitis C virus-related cryoglobulinaemia.

Initial increase in the cryoglobulin level after rituximab therapy for type II cryoglobulinemia secondary to Waldenström macroglobulinemia does not indicate failure of response

Type II (mixed) cryoglobulinemia is a systemic vasculitis that may affect many organs, including the skin, leading to ulcerations secondary to immune complex deposition. We report a patient who presented with a large necrotic ulcerative lesion on the right ankle secondary to type II cryoglobulinemic vasculitis due to Waldenström macroglobulinemia that was resistant to multiple modalities of therapy. Amputation to prevent further necrosis and infections was almost performed. Treatment with rituximab was initiated and the patient had a dramatic response. This case report highlights the effectiveness and prompt response to rituximab when used in patients with small vessel vasculitis and skin ulceration. We describe a rise in the cryoglobulin level that may occur initially after rituximab therapy.

Vasculitis in systemic lupus erythematosis

Vasculitis in connective tissue diseases is not an uncommon complication. Vasculitis complicates both rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE) in about 4% of cases. Cutaneous lesions, representing small-vessel involvement, are most common; however, widespread, necrotizing visceral medium-and large-vessel involvement, mimicking primary vasculitic syndromes, may also occur. Connective tissue disease-associated vasculitis is separated from primary vasculitis syndromes in classification schemes. Granulomatous large-vessel disease does not occur in connective tissue diseases, suggesting a different pathogenesis. In most disorders, the etiology of vascular inflammation in not completely understood, but basic pathogenic mechanisms can often be distinguished. The role of immune complexes in the inflammatory manifestations of SLE is recognized, and other pathogenic factors such as antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies, common in other vasculitides, are infrequent. A diverse spectrum of clinical features, due to inflammatory involvement of arterial and venous vessels of all sizes, characterize several connective tissue diseases including Behçet's disease and SLE. The recognition of disease manifestations due to vasculitis in these disorders has important implications for treatment and may be critical to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Rituximab in autoimmune diseases

Modern treatments of autoimmune diseases are based on immunological therapies. Rituximab induces a targeted B-cell depletion in the aim of eradicating autoreactive clones in various autoimmune disorders. Several studies are being undertaken and preliminary reports are very encouraging. The mechanism of action is not evident, but appears to be connected with the lowering of autoantibody levels, in the diseases where relevant antibody titres are relievable. Most of the patients treated were affected by idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, but also very rare diseases like acquired haemophilia are reported. Best results are described in autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, in many others there is clear evidence for efficacy; in all the diseases the number of complete or partial remission, though temporary, is much greater than 50%. Side effects are rarely reported, and immunosuppression is not a great problem. The persistence of clinical improvement for more than 1 year after B-lymphocyte repopulation supports the hypothesis of a stochastic generation of pathogenic B-cell subsets. Other studies and controlled trials are required to establish when and which patients are to be treated, and find the opportunity of the association of others drugs.

Relapsing polychondritis, chronic hepatitis C virus infection, and mixed cryoglobulemia

OBJECTIVE

Review of relapsing polychondritis (RP) and its association to chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and mixed cryoglobulinemia.

METHODS

A case of RP associated with HCV infection is reported. The English language medical and scientific literature was reviewed for RP, hepatitis C, and its relation to other connective tissue diseases from February 1966 to January 2003 using MEDLINE.

RESULTS

RP is an uncommon, multisystem disease of unknown etiology characterized by recurrent inflammation of cartilaginous and related tissues, being associated with other diseases in 30% to 35% of cases. HCV infection is a systemic illness with a propensity to trigger or exacerbate autoimmune disorders: eg, essential mixed cryoglobulinemia, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, and leukocytoclastic and systemic vasculitis. We could find no previous report of an association between RP with HCV and mixed cryoglobulinemia. Treatment with interferon gamma and ribavirin (IR) not only induced an undetectable viral load, but also resolved symptoms of RP.

CONCLUSIONS

We report a patient with RP, HCV, and mixed cryoglobulinemia. It is unknown if there is a cause-effect or chance relationship. Treatment with IR improved the symptoms of RP. It is not known whether the effects of IR were directly on the RP or suppressed RP indirectly through the actions on the viral load or active hepatitis.

Human IgG1/IgG3 cryoglobulin suggesting lack of allelic exclusion

Immunoglobulins undergoing cold-dependent precipitation are known as cryoglobulins. A type I cryoglobulin after Brouet et al. from serum of a patient with severe cutaneous vasculitis and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis was purified by reversible temperature-dependent precipitation and analyzed using FPLC, Western blotting and peptide sequencing. The isolated cryoglobulin consisted of a single complex of a molecular weight of above 210kDa observed under non-reducing conditions in SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). Under reducing conditions, this complex resolved into three bands, two of which were reminiscent of Ig heavy (HC) chains and one of Ig-light chains (LC). The FPLC-purified type I cryoglobulin showed reversible precipitation analyzed by spectrophotometry. Delineation of the peptides involved in complex formation by immunoblot analysis and peptide sequencing revealed IgG3-V(H)4/Igkappa-VkappaIII/JkappaII and IgG1/V(H)3 molecules with evidence of somatic mutation. Coomassie blue-staining suggested that molar amounts of the IgG3-heavy chain were much higher than that of the IgG1-heavy chain. Treatment with SDS and boiling did not disrupt the unusually high molecular weight Ig complex. Pre-treatment of the cryoglobulin in 6M guadinium hydrochloride followed by gel filtration chromatography suggested covalent association of the IgG3, IgG1 and Igkappa molecules. Therefore, it might be that the cryoglobulin was produced by a single plasma B cell clone which passed immunological check-points in terms of B cell selection in the bone marrow in the absence of allelic exclusion, class switching and affinity maturation by somatic mutation.

Efficacy and safety of rituximab in type II mixed cryoglobulinemia

The best treatment of type II mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) has still to be defined. Antiviral treatment for the frequent underlying infectious trigger hepatitis C virus (HCV) may be ineffective, contraindicated, or not tolerated in a fraction of cases, whereas current immunosuppressive treatments may lead to relevant complications. Selective B-cell blockade with rituximab was used in this study, based on favorable results in preliminary experience. Fifteen consecutive patients with type II MC (HCV-related in 12 of 15) were treated with rituximab, 375 mg/m(2) intravenously weekly for 4 weeks. Only medium- to low-dose steroids were allowed, if already administered at the time of recruitment. All patients had active disease, poorly controlled or difficult to manage with previous treatments, including corticosteroids in all. Efficacy and safety of rituximab therapy were evaluated in the following 6 months. The overall follow-up after rituximab treatment ranged from 9 to 31 months. Rituximab proved effective on skin vasculitis manifestations (ulcers, purpura, or urticaria), subjective symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, low-grade B-cell lymphoma, arthralgias, and fever. Nephritis of recent onset went into remission in one case. Laboratory features, that is, significantly decreased serum rheumatoid factor and cryoglobulins and increased C4, were consistent with the clinical efficacy. Treatment was well tolerated, with no infectious complications. Thrombosis of retinal artery or self-limiting panniculitis occurred in one patient each. Rituximab may represent a safe and effective alternative to standard immunosuppression in type II MC. Controlled studies are needed to better define drug indications and the cost-efficacy profile in the different systemic manifestations.

Cutaneous vasculitis

Vasculitis can range in severity from a self-limited single-organ disorder to a life-threatening disease with the prospect of multiple-organ failure. This condition presents many challenges to the physician, including classification and diagnosis, appropriate laboratory workup, treatment, and the need for careful follow-up. The physician must not only be able to recognize vasculitis but also be able to provide a specific diagnosis (if possible) as well as recognize and treat any underlying etiologic condition. Most diagnostic criteria are based on the size of vessel involvement, which often correlates with specific dermatologic findings. This may allow the dermatologist to provide an initial diagnosis and direct the medical evaluation. This article reviews the classification and diagnosis of cutaneous vasculitic syndromes and current treatment options; it also presents a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating the patient with suspected cutaneous vasculitis. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2003;48:311-40.)

LEARNING OBJECTIVE

At the completion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with the classification and clinical features of the various forms of cutaneous vasculitis. They should also have a rational approach to diagnosing and treating a patient with vasculitis.

Extensive acronecrosis as a manifestation of mixed cryoglobulinaemia: a case report

Cryoglobulinaemia is a systemic disorder characterized by circulating antibodies that precipitate in the cold and resolve on rewarming. Three different types have been described, distinct in the class of immunoglobulins and their clonality. The clinical expression varies from purpura and arthralgia to progressive renal failure and even acronecrosis (1-3). Associated conditions are lymphoproliferative disorders, auto-immune diseases and chronic infections, but several cases occur in the absence of identifyable other disease states. The present communication reports on a case of mixed cryoglobulinaemia. Of particular interest are the rapidly progressive clinical evolution to acronecrosis of the four limbs, necessitating amputation, the presence of spurious leucocytosis and the absence of other systemic symptoms.

Fludarabine treatment of cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis

Three patients (one hepatitis C positive) presented with renal insufficiency and nephrotic-range proteinuria resulting from mixed cryoglobulinemia and glomerulonephritis. All three patients received two to four cycles of intravenous fludarabine (each cycle consisted of 25 to 50 mg/d for 4 to 5 days). All patients responded to therapy with a decrease in proteinuria, increase in serum albumin, and decrease in serum creatinine. This response was evident by 2 months and persisted for 2 to 5 years. In two patients, this response was accompanied by disappearance of cryoglobulins, at least transiently. One patient developed tuberculosis with neutropenia. Transient blindness and neutropenia were seen in another patient. These results suggest that fludarabine may be a useful treatment in cryoglobulinemia with glomerulonephritis, although its use may be accompanied by side effects.

Glomerulonephritis with microtubular deposits associated with cryoglobulinemia and chronic active hepatitis

A 65-year-old-woman presented with edema, ascites, proteinuria and abnormal liver function tests. A small amount of mixed cryoglobulin was detected in her serum. Liver biopsy revealed mild chronic active hepatitis, but tests for hepatotropic viral infection were negative. Electron microscopy of the renal biopsy revealed glomerular electron-dense deposits that contained numerous tubular structures. Renal amyloidosis and light chain deposition disease were ruled out by appropriate histological techniques. The ultrastructural findings of renal biopsy suggested either cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis or immunotactoid glomerulopathy. Although the exact interrelationship among the peculiar glomerulopathy, cryoglobulinemia and chronic active hepatitis in the present case remains undetermined, this report enlarges the spectrum of glomerulopathy characterized by extracellular deposition of microtubules.