A Rare Gastrointestinal Manifestation of Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis: A Case Report

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.