Cryoglobulinemic Vasculitis Masquerading as Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Abstract

Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis (CV) is a systemic inflammatory syndrome involving small- to medium-sized vessels. Almost half of hepatitis C-infected patients have detectable cryoglobulins levels, but only very few develop clinical manifestations. In this case report, we bring forth a diagnostic challenge of CV. A 52-year-old man with untreated hepatitis C (high viral load), diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease 4 (CKD) with solitary left kidney presented with one month of bilateral hand pain that started in his right hand, progressed to involve the left with numbness more on the palmer aspects and lateral three fingers. Physical exam was significant for bilateral positive Phalen and Tinel's sign. CV occurs due to precipitation of immune complexes within the vessels. Palpable purpura, arthralgia, and weakness have been described as the core symptoms of CV. However, progressive acute to subacute neuropathy, especially bilateral, should raise concerns for vasculitic neuropathy.