Health Library Explorer
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.
Click 'Topic Index' to return to the index for the current topic.
Click 'Library Index' to return to the listing of all topics.

Cryoglobulin

Does this test have other names?

Cryocrit, cryoprotein

What is this test?

This test is done to find out if you have abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins in your blood.

Blood proteins include normal immunoglobulins (antibodies) such as IgG and IgM. But they can also include antibodies linked to autoimmune diseases. These abnormal blood proteins (cryoglobulins) are dissolved in your blood at the normal body temperature. But when you are in a cold environment, they may thicken and clump together. This limits the blood flow to your joints, muscles, and organs. This can lead to damage and inflammation of your blood vessels and tissues over time. 

High levels of cryoglobulins may be a sign that your body is making abnormal proteins. This condition is seen with some autoimmune disorders and conditions, such as:

  • Raynaud disease

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus

  • Rheumatoid arthritis

  • Sjogren syndrome

  • Leukemia

  • Lymphoma

Why do I need this test?

You may need this test if your healthcare provider thinks that you have a problem with your blood proteins. Symptoms tend to happen in cold weather and include:

  • Skin blueness

  • Numbness or tingling

  • Coldness in the fingers

In more severe cases, it can also cause joint pain or tissue damage.

What other tests might I have along with this test?

You may have a joint fluid analysis if your provider thinks that you have a systemic inflammatory disease, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. You may have tests to measure blood levels of other antibodies, including:

  • Antinuclear antibodies

  • Antibodies to DNA

  • Antibodies to phospholipids

What do my test results mean?

Test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Your test results may be different depending on the lab used. They may not mean you have a problem. Ask your healthcare provider what your test results mean for you.

A negative test result means the antibodies in your blood stay dissolved even when the blood is chilled.

If you test positive for cryoglobulins, it means these proteins became visibly thickened when your blood sample was chilled. Your healthcare provider will do more tests to find out the cause.

How is this test done?

The test is done with a blood sample. A needle is used to draw blood from a vein in your arm or hand. 

Does this test pose any risks?

Having a blood test with a needle has some risks. These include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling lightheaded. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you may feel a slight sting or pain. Afterward, the site may be sore. 

What might affect my test results?

Other factors aren't likely to affect your results.

How do I get ready for this test?

You may need to not eat or drink anything but water for 8 hours before the test. Tell your healthcare provider about all medicines, herbs, vitamins, and supplements you are taking. This includes medicines that don't need a prescription and any illegal drugs you may use. 

Online Medical Reviewer: Chad Haldeman-Englert MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN
Date Last Reviewed: 9/1/2022
© 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Powered by StayWell
About StayWell | Disclaimer | Terms of Use

Our web site is designed to provide general information to educate users about programs and services, which may be available through our hospitals. The web site is not intended to provide medical advice nor should the information be used to attempt to determine the presence, absence or severity of any illness or medical condition which may be perceived or experienced by the user of this site. If you have or suspect you may have an illness or condition which you believe requires medical attention, we recommend you call your primary care physician. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency please call "911" (or your local medical emergency number) or seek immediate care from the nearest hospital Emergency Department. The provision of information to users of this web site is not intended as an inducement or to otherwise influence a person's decision to order or receive any item or service from a particular provider, practitioner or supplier that is reimbursable under Medicare, a state healthcare program (e.g., AHCCS) or any other healthcare plan.

Physicians are members of the medical staff at each facility, but are independent contractors who are neither employees nor agents of Tenet Florida Coastal Division; and, as a result, Tenet Florida Coastal Division is not responsible for the actions of any of these physicians in their medical practices.