LAB TEST
Cryoglobulins
Cryoglobulins are antibodies that become solid or gel-like at low temperatures in the laboratory. This article describes the blood test used to check for them. In the laboratory, cryoglobulins come out of solution in blood when the blood sample is cooled below 98.6°F (37°C). They dissolve again when the sample is warmed up. Cryoglobulins come in three main types, but in most cases the cause of having cryoglobulins is hepatitis C . The disease in which cryoglobulins are found is called cryoglobulinemia . Cryoglobulins can cause inflammation in blood vessels, called vasculitis. They may also cause inflammation in the kidney, nerves, joints, lungs and skin.
How the Test is Performed
Because they are temperature sensitive, cryoglobulins are hard to accurately measure. The blood specimen must be collected in a special way. The test should only be done in laboratories that are equipped for it. Blood is drawn from a vein. A vein on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand is used in most…
How to Prepare for the Test
You may want to call ahead to ask to have your blood drawn by a lab technician who has experience collecting blood for this test.
How the Test will Feel
Some people feel discomfort when the needle is inserted. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the Test is Performed
This test is most often done when a person has symptoms of a condition associated with cryoglobulins. Cryoglobulins are associated with cryoglobulinemia. They also occur in other conditions that affect the skin, joints, kidneys, and nervous system.
Normal Results
Normally, there are no cryoglobulins. Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results. The example above shows the common measurement for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test…
What Abnormal Results Mean
A positive test may indicate: Cryoglobulinemia Hepatitis (especially hepatitis C) Infectious mononucleosis Leukemia Lymphoma Macroglobulinemia -- primary Multiple myeloma Rheumatoid arthritis Systemic lupus erythematosus Additional conditions under which the test may be performed includes nephrotic syndrome .
Risks
Risks associated with having blood drawn are slight, but may include: Excessive bleeding Fainting or feeling lightheaded Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin) Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
References
De Vita S, Gandolfo S, Quartuccio L. Cryoglobulinemia. In: Hochberg MC, Gravallese EM, Silman AJ, Smolen JS, Weinblatt ME, Weisman MH, eds. Rheumatology. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 171. McPherson RA, Riley RS, Massey HD. Laboratory evaluation of immunoglobulin function and humoral immunity. In:…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 25/01/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.