The significance of cryoglobulinemia in patients with chronic hepatitis B and C virus infection
Cesur, S.; Akin, K.; Kurt, H.
Hepato-Gastroenterology 50(53): 1487-1489
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0172-6390 PMID: 14571770 Document Number: 563156
Background/Aims: Mixed cryoglobulinemia is frequently seen in liver disease and chronic viral hepatitis. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and clinical findings of cryoglobulins in patients with chronic hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis C. Methodology: Cryoglobulins were precipitated from serum stored for up to 7 days. The precipitates were washed five times at 4degreeC with 0.15mol/L NaCl and total protein concentration was measured by reading absorbance at 280nm. Results: The prevalence of cryoglobulinemia was higher in patients with hepatitis C than in patients with hepatitis B (16.6% and 4.6% respectively). Patients with cryoglobulinemia had several symptoms such as arthralgia and weakness. Conclusions: Cryoglobulin-positive chronic hepatitis B and C patients should be investigated in terms of cryoglobulinemia symptoms and complications.