Persisting Mixed Cryoglobulinemia in Chikungunya Infection
2009

Mixed Cryoglobulinemia in Chikungunya Infection

Sample size: 66 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Oliver Manuela, Grandadam Marc, Marimoutou Catherine, Rogier Christophe, Botelho-Nevers Elisabeth, Tolou Hugues, Moalic Jean-Luc, Kraemer Philippe, Morillon Marc, Morand Jean-Jacques, Jeandel Pierre, Parola Philippe, Simon Fabrice

Primary Institution: Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées Laveran, Marseille, France

Hypothesis

Cryoglobulins may play a role in the chronic stage of Chikungunya virus infection.

Conclusion

The prevalence of mixed cryoglobulinemia was high in Chikungunya-infected travelers with long-lasting symptoms, but no significant association with clinical manifestations was found.

Supporting Evidence

  • 94% of CHIKV-infected patients had cryoglobulinemia at least once during follow-up.
  • Over 90% of patients experienced arthralgias alongside cryoglobulinemia.
  • Cryoglobulin levels decreased over time as patients recovered.

Takeaway

Chikungunya can cause long-lasting joint pain, and many people with this infection also have a condition called cryoglobulinemia, which can affect their blood tests.

Methodology

Patients with suspected Chikungunya infection were recorded, and demographic, clinical, and laboratory findings were collected over follow-up.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to the high sensitivity of the cryoglobulinemia detection method used.

Limitations

The study did not include seronegative patients for ethical reasons, and the follow-up was limited to symptomatic patients.

Participant Demographics

Median age of participants was 54 years, with a sex ratio of 1.04 (M/F).

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pntd.0000374

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