1
|
Rapid improvement of psychiatric stigmata after IFN-free treatment in HCV patients with and without cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Clin Rheumatol 2021; 41:147-157. [PMID: 34409558 PMCID: PMC8724104 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05877-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes neuropsychiatric disorders and quality of life impairment, especially in patients with cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV). Direct acting antivirals (DAAs) are effective in most extrahepatic HCV diseases, but limited information exists regarding the outcome of psychiatric disorders in patients with and without CV, after therapy. We aimed to evaluate psychiatric outcomes, in HCV-patients with and without CV, before and after successful DAA therapy. METHODS We prospectively studied DAA-treated HCV-patients, stratified into presence (CV) or absence of CV (NON-CV). Four psychometric scales were administered to assess depression (HAM-D and MADRS), anxiety (HAM-A), and mania (MRS). Short-Form-36 questionnaires evaluated quality of life. RESULTS Seventy-six patients were recruited, and 47 CV and 29 NON-CV were treated with antivirals. At baseline, depression and anxiety, from mild to severe, were frequently shown, with the most advanced cases in thee CV group; no patients achieved the scores for mania. A significant improvement emerged for all the psychometric scales in the entire population and in the subgroups, after viral eradication even in the short-term outcome. The Short-Form-36 summary components showed benefits. CONCLUSIONS After HCV eradication, the depression and anxiety scores significantly improved and severity grade generally lowered. DAA-positive effects on mental disorders should be considered part of the therapy outcome, being beneficial especially in CV patients who usually have worse baseline mental scores. Key Points • HCV frequently causes psychiatric disorders and an often-invalidating autoimmune/lymphoproliferative disease called cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. • The new direct acting antivirals (DAAs) are very effective and well tolerated by HCV-patients. • This study shows DAA-induced benefits on depression and anxiety in HCV-patients that are especially evident in CV patients who usually have worse baseline mental scores. • DAA-induced benefits are observed in the short-term post-therapy follow-up, in contrast with data previously obtained in HCV patients treated with IFN-based anti-HCV therapy.
Collapse
|
2
|
Khonsari RH, Maylin S, Nicol P, Martinot-Peignoux M, Créange A, Duyckaerts C, Bertolus C. Sicca syndrome and dementia in a patient with hepatitis C infection: a case report with unusual bifocal extrahepatic manifestations. J Maxillofac Oral Surg 2015; 14:388-92. [PMID: 25848147 DOI: 10.1007/s12663-014-0632-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are associated with extrahepatic manifestations in 40-75 % of cases. Sialitis and secondary Sjögren syndrome are well characterized complications of chronic HCV infections but the mechanisms (primary or secondary) leading to xerostomia are not understood. Similarly, brain lesions due to HCV can be primary or secondary but the pathology of primary HCV-related brain lesions is not well described. CASE REPORT We report the postmortem case of a 60-year old patient initially presenting with sicca syndrome and dementia. HCV was identified in the brain but not in the salivary glands using transcription-mediated amplification (TMA). Focal sialitis was found in submandibular glands. Neuropathological examination revealed the presence of multiple dot-sized demyelination foci. CONCLUSION Sicca syndrome is a common concern in chronic HCV infections and may be due to secondary immune mechanisms (we could not isolate HCV in salivary gland tissues). TMA had never been applied to the detection of viruses in salivary glands and neural tissues and proves to be a promising technique. Neuropathological reports in HCV infections are rare and the lesions we report may be the first characterization of the direct effect of HCV on brain cells. More cases are needed to define the full spectrum of lesions potentially caused by the direct action of the HCV on salivary glands and neural tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R H Khonsari
- Service de Chirurgie Maxillofaciale et Stomatologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France ; UPMC Université Paris 06, 75005 Paris, France ; Laboratoire de Neuropathologie Raymond-Escourolle, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France
| | - S Maylin
- Service de Microbiologie, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy, France
| | - P Nicol
- Service de Chirurgie Maxillofaciale et Stomatologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France ; UPMC Université Paris 06, 75005 Paris, France
| | - M Martinot-Peignoux
- INSERM U-773, Centre de recherche biomédicale Bichat-Beaujon CRB3, Université Paris VII, Clichy, France
| | - A Créange
- Service de Neurologie, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Créteil, France
| | - C Duyckaerts
- UPMC Université Paris 06, 75005 Paris, France ; Laboratoire de Neuropathologie Raymond-Escourolle, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France
| | - C Bertolus
- Service de Chirurgie Maxillofaciale et Stomatologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, 75013 Paris, France ; UPMC Université Paris 06, 75005 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Headaches and vasculitis. Neurol Clin 2014; 32:321-62. [PMID: 24703534 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2013.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Vasculitis is a spectrum of clinicopathologic disorders defined by inflammation of arteries of veins of varying caliber with variable tissue injury. Headache may be an important clue to vasculitic involvement of central nervous system (CNS) vessels. CNS vasculitis may be primary, in which only intracranial vessels are involved in the inflammatory process, or secondary to another known disorder with overlapping systemic involvement. A suspicion of vasculitis based on the history, clinical examination, or laboratory studies warrants prompt evaluation and treatment to forestall progression and avert cerebral ischemia or infarction.
Collapse
|
4
|
Pagano G, Komici K, Femminella GD, de Lucia C, Ianniciello M, Leosco D, Ferrara N, Rengo G. Sudden onset of coma in a 70-year-old woman with cryoglobulinemia. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2014; 15:56-9. [PMID: 24516693 PMCID: PMC3917880 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.889868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2013] [Accepted: 10/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Female, 70 Final Diagnosis: Chronic Heaptitis C Symptoms: Coma Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Plamapheresis Specialty: Neurology
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Pagano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Klara Komici
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Claudio de Lucia
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Marta Ianniciello
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurological Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Leosco
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferrara
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy ; Division of Cardiology, "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation - IRCCS - Institute of Telese Terme, Telese Terme (BN), Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rengo
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, Naples, Italy ; Division of Cardiology, "Salvatore Maugeri" Foundation - IRCCS - Institute of Telese Terme, Telese Terme (BN), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sellner J, Steiner I. Neurologic complications of hepatic viruses. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2014; 123:647-61. [PMID: 25015509 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-53488-0.00031-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Johann Sellner
- Department of Neurology, Christian-Doppler-Klinik, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität Munich, Germany
| | - Israel Steiner
- Department of Neurology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zampino R, Marrone A, Restivo L, Guerrera B, Sellitto A, Rinaldi L, Romano C, Adinolfi LE. Chronic HCV infection and inflammation: Clinical impact on hepatic and extra-hepatic manifestations. World J Hepatol 2013; 5:528-540. [PMID: 24179612 PMCID: PMC3812455 DOI: 10.4254/wjh.v5.i10.528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2013] [Revised: 08/06/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver has a central role in regulating inflammation by its capacity to secrete a number of proteins that control both local and systemic inflammatory responses. Chronic inflammation or an exaggerated inflammatory response can produce detrimental effects on target organs. Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes liver inflammation by complex and not yet well-understood molecular pathways, including direct viral effects and indirect mechanisms involving cytokine pathways, oxidative stress and steatosis induction. An increasing body of evidence recognizes the inflammatory response in chronic hepatitis C as pathogenically linked to the development of both liver-limited injury (fibrosis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma) and extrahepatic HCV-related diseases (lymphoproliferative disease, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular and brain disease). Defining the complex mechanisms of HCV-induced inflammation could be crucial to determine the global impact of infection, to estimate progression of the disease, and to explore novel therapeutic approaches to avert HCV-related diseases. This review focuses on HCV-related clinical conditions as a result of chronic liver and systemic inflammatory states.
Collapse
|
7
|
Retamozo S, Díaz-Lagares C, Bosch X, Bové A, Brito-Zerón P, Gómez ME, Yagüe J, Forns X, Cid MC, Ramos-Casals M. Life-Threatening Cryoglobulinemic Patients With Hepatitis C: Clinical Description and Outcome of 279 Patients. Medicine (Baltimore) 2013; 92:273-284. [PMID: 23974248 PMCID: PMC4553974 DOI: 10.1097/md.0b013e3182a5cf71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryoglobulinemia is characterized by a wide range of causes, symptoms, and outcomes. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is detected in 30%-100% of patients with cryoglobulins. Although more than half the patients with cryoglobulinemic vasculitis present a relatively benign clinical course, some may present with potentially life-threatening situations. We conducted the current study to analyze the clinical characteristics and outcomes of HCV patients presenting with life-threatening cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. We evaluated 181 admissions from 89 HCV patients diagnosed with cryoglobulinemic vasculitis consecutively admitted to our department between 1995 and 2010. In addition, we performed a systematic analysis of cases reported to date through a MEDLINE search.The following organ involvements were considered to be potentially life-threatening in HCV patients with cryoglobulinemic vasculitis: cryoglobulinemic, biopsy-proven glomerulonephritis presenting with renal failure; gastrointestinal vasculitis; pulmonary hemorrhage; central nervous system (CNS) involvement; and myocardial involvement. A total of 279 patients (30 from our department and 249 from the literature search) fulfilled the inclusion criteria: 205 presented with renal failure, 45 with gastrointestinal vasculitis, 38 with CNS involvement, 18 with pulmonary hemorrhage, and 3 with myocardial involvement; 30 patients presented with more than 1 life-threatening cryoglobulinemic manifestation. There were 146 (52%) women and 133 (48%) men, with a mean age at diagnosis of cryoglobulinemia of 54 years (range, 25-87 yr) and a mean age at life-threatening involvement of 55 years (range, 25-87 yr). In 232 (83%) patients, life-threatening involvement was the first clinical manifestation of cryoglobulinemia. Severe involvement appeared a mean of 1.2 years (range, 1-11 yr) after the diagnosis of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Patients were followed for a mean of 14 months (range, 3-120 mo) after the diagnosis of life-threatening cryoglobulinemia. Sixty-three patients (22%) died. The main cause of death was sepsis (42%) in patients with glomerulonephritis, and cryoglobulinemic vasculitis itself in patients with gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and CNS involvement (60%, 57%, and 62%, respectively). In conclusion, HCV-related cryoglobulinemia may result in progressive (renal involvement) or acute (pulmonary hemorrhage, gastrointestinal ischemia, CNS involvement) life-threatening organ damage. The mortality rate of these manifestations ranges between 20% and 80%. Unfortunately, this may be the first cryoglobulinemic involvement in almost two-thirds of cases, highlighting the complex management and very elevated mortality of these cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soledad Retamozo
- From Josep Font Laboratory of Autoimmune Diseases (SR, CDL, AB, PBZ, MEG, MRC) and Vasculitis Research Unit (MCC), Department of Autoimmune Diseases; Department of Internal Medicine (XB); Department of Immunology (JY); and Viral Hepatitis Unit (XF), Department of Hepatology; CIBERehd, Hospital Clínic, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sharma A, Sharma K. Hepatotropic viral infection associated systemic vasculitides-hepatitis B virus associated polyarteritis nodosa and hepatitis C virus associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. J Clin Exp Hepatol 2013; 3:204-12. [PMID: 25755502 PMCID: PMC4216827 DOI: 10.1016/j.jceh.2013.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Two hepatotropic viruses have been shown to have causal relationship with systemic vasculitis-hepatitis B with classical polyarteritis nodosa and hepatitis C with cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. The present paper provides an updated overview on the clinical presentations and management of these vasculitides. HBV associated PAN patients have higher weight loss, peripheral neuropathy, mononeuritis multiplex, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal manifestations requiring surgery, cardiomyopathy, orchitis, hypertension, and/or elevated transaminase levels. Microaneurysms are also more common in mesenteric artery. Skin manifestations, however are less common. These patients also have a severe disease as suggested by higher five factor score and higher BVAS. Though relapses are less common, mortality is higher in patients with HBV PAN as compared to non HBV PAN. Plasmapheresis has a role in treatment in clearing off immune complexes. The common clinical manifestations of HCV associated cryoglobulinemic vasculitis are skin lesions, peripheral neuropathy, glomerulonephritis, arthritis, and sicca symptoms. Though combination therapy comprising of pegylated interferon α and ribavirin is the first line of management, immunotherapy is needed for severe or life threatening manifestations. Recent randomized trials have shown the efficacy of rituximab in such situations.
Collapse
Key Words
- ANCA, anti neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibodies
- BVAS, Birmingham vasculitis activity score
- CHCC, Chapel Hill Consensus classification criteria
- FFS, five factor score
- FVG, French vasculitis group
- HBV
- HBV, hepatitis b virus
- HBV, hepatitis c virus
- HCV
- MPA, microscopic polyangiitis
- MPO, myeloperoxidase
- PAN, polyarteritis nodosa
- PE, plasma exchange
- cryoglobulinemic vasculitis
- polyarteritis nodosa
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aman Sharma
- Department of Internal Medicine, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| | - Kusum Sharma
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Alba MA, Espígol-Frigolé G, Prieto-González S, Tavera-Bahillo I, García-Martínez A, Butjosa M, Hernández-Rodríguez J, Cid MC. Central nervous system vasculitis: still more questions than answers. Curr Neuropharmacol 2012; 9:437-48. [PMID: 22379458 PMCID: PMC3151598 DOI: 10.2174/157015911796557920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2010] [Revised: 11/30/2010] [Accepted: 11/30/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) may be involved by a variety of inflammatory diseases of blood vessels. These include primary angiitis of the central nervous system (PACNS), a rare disorder specifically targeting the CNS vasculature, and the systemic vasculitides which may affect the CNS among other organs and systems. Both situations are severe and convey a guarded prognosis. PACNS usually presents with headache and cognitive impairment. Focal symptoms are infrequent at disease onset but are common in more advanced stages. The diagnosis of PACNS is difficult because, although magnetic resonance imaging is almost invariably abnormal, findings are non specific. Angiography has limited sensitivity and specificity. Brain and leptomeningeal biopsy may provide a definitive diagnosis when disclosing blood vessel inflammation and are also useful to exclude other conditions presenting with similar findings. However, since lesions are segmental, a normal biopsy does not completely exclude PACNS. Secondary CNS involvement by systemic vasculitis occurs in less than one fifth of patients but may be devastating. A prompt recognition and aggressive treatment is crucial to avoid permanent damage and dysfunction. Glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide are recommended for patients with PACNS and for patients with secondary CNS involvement by small-medium-sized systemic vasculitis. CNS involvement in large-vessel vasculitis is usually managed with high-dose glucocorticoids (giant-cell arteritis) or glucocorticoids and immunosuppressive agents (Takayasu's disease). However, in large vessel vasculitis, where CNS symptoms are usually due to involvement of extracranial arteries (Takayasu's disease) or proximal portions of intracranial arteries (giant-cell arteritis), revascularization procedures may also have an important role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Alba
- Vasculitis Research Unit, Department of Systemic Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, Institut d´Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Chronic infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is associated with a wide spectrum of extrahepatic manifestations, affecting different organ systems. Neurological complications occur in a large number of patients and range from peripheral neuropathy to cognitive impairment. Pathogenetic mechanisms responsible for nervous system dysfunction are mainly related to the upregulation of the host immune response with production of autoantibodies, immune complexes, and cryoglobulins. Alternative mechanisms include possible extrahepatic replication of HCV in neural tissues and the effects of circulating inflammatory cytokines and chemokines.
Collapse
|
11
|
Zaidan M, Mariotte E, Galicier L, Arnulf B, Meignin V, Vérine J, Mahr A, Azoulay É. Vasculitic emergencies in the intensive care unit: a special focus on cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. Ann Intensive Care 2012; 2:31. [PMID: 22812447 PMCID: PMC3488028 DOI: 10.1186/2110-5820-2-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2012] [Accepted: 06/24/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasculitis is characterized by the infiltration of vessel walls by inflammatory leukocytes with reactive damage and subsequent loss of vessel integrity. The clinical course of systemic vasculitis may be punctuated by acute life-threatening manifestations that require intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Furthermore, the diagnosis may be established in the ICU after admission for a severe inaugural symptom, mostly acute respiratory failure. Among the systemic vasculitides, cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV) has been rarely studied in an ICU setting. Severe CV-related complications may involve the kidneys, lungs, heart, gut, and/or central nervous system. The diagnosis of CV in the ICU may be delayed or completely unrecognized. A high level of suspicion is critical to obtain a timely and accurate diagnosis and to initiate appropriate treatment. We describe severe acute manifestations of CV based on six selected patients admitted to our ICU. That all six patients survived suggests the benefit of prompt ICU admission of patients with severe CV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Zaidan
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Eric Mariotte
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Lionel Galicier
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Bertrand Arnulf
- Department of Immuno-Hematology, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Véronique Meignin
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Vérine
- Department of Pathology, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Alfred Mahr
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
| | - Élie Azoulay
- Department of Medical Intensive Care Unit, Hôpital Saint-Louis, AP-HP, Université Paris-7 Diderot, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Medical ICU, University Paris-7 Paris-Diderot, UFR de Médecine, 1 avenue Claude Vellefaux, 75010 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hepatitis C virus infection and mixed cryoglobulinemia. Clin Dev Immunol 2012; 2012:502156. [PMID: 22844322 PMCID: PMC3403343 DOI: 10.1155/2012/502156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection is recognized as the major cause of mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC). Its persistence represents a continuous stimulus for host immune system with production of circulating immune complexes (ICs), one-third of them with cryoprecipitate property. Several factors contribute to the biological activities of ICs, many of which are not completely known. Among them, complement factors play a crucial role in the cold-insoluble ICs-mediated vasculitis, involving primarily small blood vessels in different tissues including skin, kidney, peripheral, and central nervous system. Liver represents the major target of HCV infection with inflammatory infiltrates, resembling secondary lymphoid follicles. Cytokine like CXCL13 contribute to B-cell homing in intraportal lymphoid aggregates, in which B-cell clonal selection may arise. B-cell clonal expansion starts as an antigen-driven event and expands towards indolent and malignant B-cell proliferation. Occurrence of intrahepatic B-cell clonalities correlates with extrahepatic clinical manifestations of HCV infection. In this context, cryoglobulinemic patients should be considered a peculiar HCV-infected population that needs a clinical multidisciplinary approach and more articulated therapeutic measures.
Collapse
|
13
|
Sim JE, Lee JB, Cho YN, Suh SH, Kim JK, Lee KY. A case of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis associated with hepatitis C virus infection. Yonsei Med J 2012; 53:856-8. [PMID: 22665357 PMCID: PMC3381478 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2012.53.4.856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a monophasic autoimmune demyelinating disease of the central nervous system, which typically follows acute viral or bacterial infection or vaccination. We report a case of ADEM associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with positive serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) anti-HCV antibody. After steroid treatment, neurologic symptoms were improved. Virus triggers autoimmunity or direct viral invasion plays a part in the genesis of ADEM. This is the first reported case of ADEM with anti-HCV antibody in the CSF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jae Eun Sim
- Department of Neurology, Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jun-Bum Lee
- Department of Neurology, Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yu Na Cho
- Department of Neurology, Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Hyun Suh
- Department of Radiology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ja Kyung Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung-Yul Lee
- Department of Neurology, Severance Institute for Vascular and Metabolic Research, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Carvalho-Filho RJ, Narciso-Schiavon JL, Tolentino LHL, Schiavon LL, Ferraz MLG, Silva AEB. Central nervous system vasculitis and polyneuropathy as first manifestations of hepatitis C. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:188-91. [PMID: 22253526 PMCID: PMC3257447 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i2.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Revised: 07/09/2011] [Accepted: 07/16/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory or motor peripheral neuropathy may be observed in a significant proportion of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients. However, central nervous system (CNS) involvement is uncommon, especially in cryoglobulin-negative subjects. We describe a case of peripheral neuropathy combined with an ischemic CNS event as primary manifestations of chronic HCV infection without cryoglobulinemia. Significant improvement was observed after antiviral therapy. We discuss the spectrum of neurological manifestations of HCV infection and review the literature.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ponzetto A, Pugliese A. Extrahepatic manifestations of Hepatitis C Virus infection. Dig Liver Dis 2008; 40:707-8; author reply 708. [PMID: 18450527 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2008.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2008] [Accepted: 03/03/2008] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
16
|
Erro Aguirre ME, Ayuso Blanco T, Tuñón Alvarez T, Herrera Isasi M. Brain hemorrhage as a complication of chronic hepatitis C virus-related vasculitis. J Neurol 2008; 255:944-5. [PMID: 18446312 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-008-0721-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2007] [Revised: 07/10/2007] [Accepted: 08/21/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
17
|
Abulhassan M, Khaleel MH, Albayomy Y, Sharaf Eldeen OA, Zalata KR. Clinical Relevance of Cryglobulinaemia and Extrahepatic Neurocutaneous Manifestations of Chronic Hepatitis C. J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1658-3612(08)70041-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
|
18
|
Abstract
Like other hepatotropic viruses, hepatitis C virus (HCV) exhibits the property of inducing hepatocellular damage, possibly through induction of immune mechanisms that lead to hepatocellular necrosis. The early activated mechanisms include production of non-specific and specific antibodies, which represent the first line of defence against invading foreign pathogens. As a consequence, circulating immune complexes are promptly formed and antigen uptake and processing by specialized cells are enhanced. A major fraction of circulating immunoglobulins (Igs) are part of the spectrum of so-called "natural" antibodies, which include anti-idiotypic antibodies and molecules with rheumatoid factor (RF) activity. They mainly belong to the IgM class, are polyclonal and have no intrinsic pathogenetic potential. In 20-30% of HCV-infected patients, RFs share characteristics of high affinity molecules, are monoclonal in nature, and result in the production of cold-precipitating immune complexes and mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC). The persistent production of monoclonal RF molecules implies the existence of a further mechanism capable of restricting the reactivity and reflects a distinct selection of a cell population that can be maintained throughout life because it is continuously exposed to antigen pressure. Either polyclonal or monoclonal profiles of B-cell expansion are demonstrable in the liver of the majority of HCV-infected patients. The frequent detection of oligoclonal B cell expansion may, indeed, represent a key pathobiologic feature which sustains non-malignant B-cell lymphoproliferation. The preferential expansion of one clone would in turn lead to a monoclonal pattern, which could favor stochastic oncogenic events. Thus, it can be postulated that HCV is the stimulus not only for the apparent benign lymphoproliferative process underlying a wide spectrum of clinical features, but also for the progression to frank lymphoid malignancy in a subgroup of patients.
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Tedeschi
- Department Oncology/Haematology, Division of Haematology, Nigurda Ca' Granda Hospital Milano, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Koskinas J, Kilidireas C, Karandreas N, Kountouras D, Savvas S, Hadziyannis E, Archimandritis AJ. Severe hepatitis C virus-related cryoglobulinaemic sensory-motor polyneuropathy treated with pegylated interferon-a2b and ribavirin: clinical, laboratory and neurophysiological study. Liver Int 2007; 27:414-20. [PMID: 17355465 DOI: 10.1111/j.1478-3231.2006.01436.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Severe involvement of central and/or peripheral nervous system is a rare complication of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related cryoglobulinaemia. METHOD Four patients with HCV-related type II/III cryoglobulinaemia (three males with genotype 1, one female with genotype 3) who presented with severe sensory-motor polyneuropathy, one with central nervous system involvement as well, were treated with pegylated IFNa-2b 1.5 microg/kg/week and ribavirin 10.6 mg/kg/daily for 48 weeks. Neurological evaluation involved detailed clinical motor and sensory scores/scales and neurophysiological studies before and after treatment. RESULTS/CONCLUSION Three out of four patients had undetectable serum HCV-RNA, normal levels of aminotransferases and substantially lower or undetectable levels of cryoglobulins at the end of treatment and at 24 weeks follow-up period. Treatment was well tolerated and all patients exhibited significant improvement of neuropathy based on solid clinical and laboratory criteria that was associated with the virological response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Koskinas
- 2nd Department of Medicine and Department of Neurology, Medical School, University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Ramos-Casals M, Robles A, Brito-Zerón P, Nardi N, Nicolás JM, Forns X, Plaza J, Yagüe J, Sánchez-Tapias JM, Font J. Life-Threatening Cryoglobulinemia: Clinical and Immunological Characterization of 29 Cases. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2006; 36:189-96. [PMID: 16996578 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2006.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2006] [Revised: 07/21/2006] [Accepted: 08/01/2006] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To analyze the etiology, clinical presentation, and outcomes of patients with life-threatening cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. METHODS We studied 209 consecutive patients with cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. A potentially life-threatening cryoglobulinemia was considered as the development of renal failure, vasculitic abdominal involvement, pulmonary hemorrhage, or central nervous system involvement. RESULTS Twenty-nine (14%) patients had life-threatening cryoglobulinemic vasculitis. There were 17 women and 12 men, with a mean age of 57 years. In 17 (59%) patients, life-threatening cryoglobulinemia was the initial clinical feature of the disease. The 29 patients had a total of 33 life-threatening episodes, which included renal failure due to cryoglobulinemic glomerulonephritis (n = 18), intestinal vasculitis (n = 8), pulmonary hemorrhage (n = 4), and central nervous system involvement (n = 3). In comparison with a control group of age-sex-matched patients with milder cryoglobulinemic vasculitis, those with severe cryoglobulinemic vasculitis had a higher frequency of fever (28% versus 7%, P = 0.017), type II cryoglobulins (100% versus 59%, P = 0.008), low C3 levels (55% versus 20%, P = 0.001), and a higher mean value of cryocrit (11.4% versus 3.3%, P = 0.004). Nineteen (66%) of the 29 patients with life-threatening involvement died, with the mortality rate reaching 100% in patients with intestinal ischemia and pulmonary hemorrhage. CONCLUSION Life-threatening cryoglobulinemic vasculitis was observed in 14% of our patients, with almost two-thirds of episodes occurring at the onset of the disease. Fever, high cryocrit levels, and low C3 levels were associated with this severe presentation. Two-thirds of the patients died, with mortality for pulmonary hemorrhage and intestinal ischemia reaching 100%.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Ramos-Casals
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
The hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a worldwide disease that is characterized by a preferential chronic evolution with mild to severe liver disease, including cirrhosis and, in lesser proportion, hepatocarcinoma. Out of these complications, HCV is frequently reported to complicate extrahepatic manifestations. Among those associated to HCV infection with a high degree of certainty, mixed cryoglobulinemia and its complications (skin, neurological, renal, rheumatological involvement) are the most prevalent (50%) in HCV-infected patients. The other diseases include noncryoglobulinemic systemic vasculitis, splenic lymphoma with villous lymphocytes, fatigue, porphyria cutanea tarda, sicca syndrome, and autoantibodies production. The extrahepatic manifestations that share mild-degree certainty of association with HCV infection include B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, autoimmune thrombocytopenia, pruritus, and type II diabetes mellitus. The other diseases such as autoimmune thyroiditis, lichen planus are more questionable for their eventual association with HCV and others (pulmonary fibrosis with or without polymyositis, progressive encephalomyelitis, Mooren's corneal ulcers, erythema nodosum, chronic polyradiculonevritis) are mostly case reports. Howerver, even in cases of tight association, the mechanisms through which HCV may promote or induce extrahepatic manifestations remain unclear and merit further investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damien Sène
- Department of Internal Medicine, Boulevard de l'hôpital, Paris, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Paueksakon P, Shaya M, Harper R, Hicks J, Truong L, Goodman JC, Powell SZ. Local cryoglobulin deposition in primary central nervous system lymphoma. Hum Pathol 2003; 34:720-4. [PMID: 12874771 DOI: 10.1016/s0046-8177(03)00192-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSLs) represent malignant non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphomas confined to the central nervous system. Recent years have brought a dramatic increase in the frequency of PCNSL in the immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations. Cryoglobulins are cold-precipitable immunoglobulins associated with a number of infectious, autoimmune, and neoplastic disorders. Although it is known that patients with hematologic malignancies (eg, B-cell lymphomas, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, plasma cell dyscrasias) may have cryoglobulinemias and cryoglobulin deposition in several organs (eg, kidney, liver skin, blood vessels, peripheral nervous system), PCNSL associated with cryoglobulin deposition has not been previously described. This report demonstrates localized cryoglobulin deposition within the tumor bed in an immunocompetent patient with PCNSL.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Adult
- Anticonvulsants
- Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal/therapeutic use
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Brain Neoplasms/metabolism
- Brain Neoplasms/pathology
- Brain Neoplasms/surgery
- Cell Nucleus/ultrastructure
- Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
- Cryoglobulins/metabolism
- Dexamethasone/therapeutic use
- Humans
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/metabolism
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/pathology
- Lymphoma, B-Cell/surgery
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/metabolism
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/pathology
- Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse/surgery
- Organelles/ultrastructure
- Phenytoin/therapeutic use
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paisit Paueksakon
- Department of Neurosurgery, Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, 77030, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
A number of studies have reported an association between chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection and significant impairments in health-related quality of life (QOL), which are independent of the severity of liver disease. There are numerous reports documenting the prevalence of symptoms such as fatigue and depression in chronic HCV infection, which may in part account for the reductions in quality of life. Although there are a large number of potential explanations for these symptoms, including depression and anxiety associated with the diagnosis of HCV infection or substance abuse, there has been recent interest in the possibility of a biological effect of HCV infection on cerebral function. There is emerging evidence of mild, but significant neurocognitive impairment in HCV infection, which cannot be attributed to substance abuse, coexistent depression or hepatic encephalopathy. In vivo magnetic resonance spectroscopy and neurophysiological studies have suggested that a biological mechanism may underlie these cognitive findings. The recent detection of HCV genetic sequences in post mortem brain tissue raises the intriguing possibility that HCV infection of the central nervous system may be related to the reported neuropsychological symptoms and cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D M Forton
- Hepatology Section, Division of Medicine A, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C viral (HCV) infection is common in the general population and can cause disease in the nervous system. This article reviews the neurologic complications associated with this virus. REVIEW SUMMARY A vasculitic neuropathy is the most firmly linked neurologic illness associated with HCV infection. This type of neuropathy occurs frequently in the presence of cryoglobulinemia. HCV is considered the most common cause of cryoglobulinemia. Other types of neuropathy have been rarely reported with HCV infection and this association is less firm. In the central nervous system, vasculitis causing stroke appears to complicate HCV infection, usually in the setting of cryoglobulinemia. Several reports of myelitis, encephalitis,lymphoma are reviewed. HCV may be the etiologic virus of progressive encephalomyelitis with rigidity; a rare disorder similar to stiff-man syndrome although different because it is progressive and fatal. Treatment of the neurologic complications associated with HCV infection is summarized. CONCLUSIONS HCV infection is being increasingly recognized as a probable cause of a variety of neurologic disorders. Systematic study of the various therapeutic options remains unexplored.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sami L Khella
- Department of Neurology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Radkowski M, Wilkinson J, Nowicki M, Adair D, Vargas H, Ingui C, Rakela J, Laskus T. Search for hepatitis C virus negative-strand RNA sequences and analysis of viral sequences in the central nervous system: evidence of replication. J Virol 2002; 76:600-8. [PMID: 11752151 PMCID: PMC136845 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.76.2.600-608.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with chronic hepatitis C are more likely to have significant changes in their physical and mental well-being than patients with liver disease of other etiology, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been occasionally implicated in diseases of the central nervous system. We analyzed the presence of the HCV negative-strand RNA sequence, which is the viral replicative intermediary, in autopsy brain tissue samples from six HCV-infected patients. Negative-strand HCV RNA was searched for by a strand-specific Tth-based reverse transcriptase PCR, and viral sequences amplified from brain tissue and serum were compared by single-strand conformational polymorphism analysis and direct sequencing. HCV RNA negative strands were detected in brain tissue in three patients. In two of these patients, serum- and brain-derived viral sequences were different and classified as belonging to different genotypes. In one of the latter patients, HCV RNA negative strands were detected in lymph node and, while being different from serum-derived sequences, were identical to those present in the brain. The results of the present study suggest that HCV can replicate in the central nervous system, probably in cells of the macrophage/monocyte lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marek Radkowski
- Division of Transplantation Medicine, Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Scottsdale, Arizona 85259, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
|
28
|
Fernández-Gutiérrez B, Zamorano J, Batlle E, Alfonso F, Conde A, Sánchez-Harguindey L, Jover JA. Coronary dissection associated with hepatitis C virus-related cryoglobulinaemia. Rheumatology (Oxford) 1999; 38:1299-301. [PMID: 10587568 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/38.12.1299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
29
|
Fujita H, Chuganji Y, Yaginuma M, Momoi M, Tanaka T. Case report: acute encephalitis immediately prior to acute onset of hepatitis C virus infection. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 1999; 14:1129-31. [PMID: 10574143 DOI: 10.1046/j.1440-1746.1999.02019.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
A 34-year-old male presented with acute viral encephalitis of unknown aetiology with subsequent acute onset of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Although the neurological syndrome improved after administration of acyclovir, jaundice appeared. Neurological complications of HCV infections have rarely been described. In this case report, we discuss the close relationship between neurological syndromes and HCV infection. In the future, we hope that further discussion of clinical cases will determine whether or not the HCV produces neurological manifestations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Fujita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Bokutou General Hospital, Japan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tembl JI, Ferrer JM, Sevilla MT, Lago A, Mayordomo F, Vilchez JJ. Neurologic complications associated with hepatitis C virus infection. Neurology 1999; 53:861-4. [PMID: 10489056 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.53.4.861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A series of nine patients with neurologic complications of hepatitis C virus infection is reported. Seven patients presented a combination of chronic sensory polyneuropathy, multineuropathy, and encephalopathy related to cryoglobulinemia. The noncryoglobulinemic symptoms consisted of an anterior optic neuropathy and a restless legs syndrome with small-fiber neuropathy. Corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide were useful in controlling vasculitic episodes. Interferon-alpha caused remission in half of the treated patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J I Tembl
- Department of Neurology, Hospital Universitari La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|