Cryoglobulins are produced by the over-stimulated immune system of patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). HCV-induced cryoglobulinemic vasculitis primarily affects small-sized vessels of systemic organs. The most common symptoms are purpura, joint pain, and peripheral neuropathy or Raynaud phenomenon. The blood tests of patients with HCV may exhibit raised erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels, positive rheumatoid factor and cryoglobulins, and decreased complement levels. Therapeutic options for HCV-induced cryoglobulinemic vasculitis, include anti-virals, Rituximab, steroids, immunosuppressant drugs, and plasma exchange.
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