# A Rare Gastrointestinal Manifestation of Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report describes a rare gastrointestinal manifestation of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis linked to hepatitis C, highlighting unusual symptoms and the need for a multidisciplinary approach.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in presenting an uncommon GI presentation of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis and emphasizing its connection to HCV.

## Key findings

- GI symptoms like diarrhea and weight loss can be rare signs of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis.
- Chronic HCV infection was associated with mixed cryoglobulinemia and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis in this case.
- Multidisciplinary care is essential for diagnosing and managing complex vasculitis cases.

## Abstract

This case displays a rare and complex manifestation of mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) associated with chronic hepatitis C (HCV) infection, emphasizing the unusual gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms seen in this condition. While GI involvement is uncommon in cryoglobulinemia, it becomes crucial to consider when patients present with unexplained diarrhea, weight loss, and systemic vasculitis signs. Our patient exhibited persistent diarrhea, purpuric skin rashes, weight loss, fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, and renal dysfunction, all of which were suggestive of cryoglobulinemic vasculitis with renal involvement. Diagnosis was confirmed through cryoglobulin testing, reduced complement levels, elevated rheumatoid factor, and kidney biopsy results showing membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. The case highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing otherwise unexplained GI symptoms in the diagnosis and management of cryoglobulinemia, particularly in the context of HCV infection. It also emphasizes the value of a multidisciplinary approach involving nephrology, rheumatology, dermatology, and gastroenterology in the management of this complex disease.