Type i cryoglobulinemia presenting as hemorrhagic crusted leg ulcers
Gray, Y.; Bruno, N.; Badiavas, E.V.; Wilkel, C.S.
Cutis 70(6): 319-323
2002
ISSN/ISBN: 0011-4162 PMID: 12502119 Document Number: 544981
Cryoglobulins (CGs) are serum proteins that reversibly precipitate when the serum is cooled below 37 degrees C. Cryoglobulinemias are associated with a variety of diseases, including hematologic, autoimmune, and infectious. Isolation of CGs requires handling the specimen with extreme care. We describe a 70-year-old man, recently diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, who developed hemorrhagic crusted skin ulcers on his legs that were pruritic and painful. Results of skin biopsies showed dilated superficial, mid-dermal and deep-dermal blood vessels containing pink amorphous material and red blood cells. Cryoglobulinemia was suspected; however, an initial search for CGs was negative. There was concern about suboptimal handling of the specimen, and the test was repeated. Two percent CGs with IgM kappa specificity were detected. This case illustrates the importance of the proper handling of specimens for evaluation of cryoglobulinemia.