A Case Performed of Cryofiltration for Hepatitis C-associated Cryoglobulinemia

Abstract

We experienced a case in which cryofiltration (CF) was performed for hepatitis C-associated cryoglobulinemia. Herein, we report the procedure and its therapeutic effect. The patient was a 68-year-old man who was positive for hepatitis C virus, rheumatoid arthritis, purpura on the lower limbs, and the cryoglobulin qualitative test, showing a course consistent with rapid progressive glomerular nephritis. After 2 CF sessions, his renal function showed a trend towards improvement; purpura on the lower limbs resolved, and pain was also alleviated. For hepatitis C-associated cryoglobulinemia, aggressive application of CF resulted in improved local circulation, which contributed to improved renal function and resolution of low limb purpura. In order to control the temperature of plasma, a cooling system for an artificial heart-lung machine was used. By controlling the surface temperature of the plasma circuit in a range of 15～20℃, we were able to keep the target temperature in a range of 4～10℃.