Hepatitis C Virus-associated Cryoglobulinemic Livedo Reticularis Improved with Direct-acting Antivirals

Intern Med. 2023 Dec 15;62(24):3631-3636. doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1671-23. Epub 2023 Apr 28.

Abstract

We herein report a case of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated cryoglobulinemic livedo reticularis in a woman in her 60s that improved with direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). Hyperpigmentation was observed in both lower legs, and a skin biopsy confirmed livedo reticularis, suggesting a relationship with cryoglobulinemia and HCV infection. DAAs with an NS5A inhibitor+NS3/4A protease inhibitor (glecaprevir/pibrentasvir) were administered for eight weeks, and a sustained virological response (SVR) was obtained. The disappearance of serum cryoglobulin was confirmed approximately two years after an SVR was obtained and livedo reticularis was improved. DAA therapy can be an effective therapeutic option for extrahepatic complications associated with HCV infection.

Keywords: cryoglobulin; direct-acting antivirals (DAAs); hepatitis C virus; livedo reticularis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Cryoglobulinemia* / complications
  • Cryoglobulinemia* / drug therapy
  • Female
  • Hepacivirus
  • Hepatitis C* / complications
  • Hepatitis C* / drug therapy
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic* / complications
  • Hepatitis C, Chronic* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Livedo Reticularis* / complications
  • Livedo Reticularis* / etiology

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents