Leucocytoclastic vasculitis associated with hepatitis C virus antibodies

Br J Rheumatol. 1997 Jan;36(1):124-5. doi: 10.1093/rheumatology/36.1.124.

Abstract

The actiopathogenesis of leucocytoclastic vasculitis is still unknown, but recently hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been suggested as trigger of autoimmunity. We report a case of a 26-yr-old patient with purpura due to leucocytoclastic vasculitis associated with hepatitis C virus infection. Laboratory findings showed AST, ALT, gamma GT within normal limits, positive antibodies to HCV (IIF and Riba II) and polymerase chain reaction for HCV RNA. Anti-nuclear antibodies, IgG and IgM anti-cardiolipin antibodies, anti-platelet antibodies and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies with perinuclear pattern were also present. A skin biopsy specimen of a purpuric lesion showed leucocytoclastic vasculitis with small vessel thrombosis and perivascular deposition of IgM and fibrinogen on immunofluorescence study. This case shows a role of HCV in leucocytoclastic vasculitis; it is possible that this HCV can induce autoimmunity independently of cryoglobulins and liver involvement.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Viral / blood*
  • Autoantibodies / blood
  • Cryoglobulinemia / complications
  • Cryoglobulinemia / immunology
  • Female
  • Hepacivirus / immunology*
  • Hepatitis C / complications
  • Hepatitis C / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / blood
  • Vasculitis, Leukocytoclastic, Cutaneous / etiology*
  • Vasculitis, Leukocytoclastic, Cutaneous / virology*

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Autoantibodies
  • Immunoglobulin G