Cryoglobulins
Type l cryoglobulinaemia which is usually associated with lymphoproliferative disorders.
Types ll and lll may be associated with infectious (hepatitis C virus infection) or autoimmune disorders. The clinical presentation includes a triad of purpura, weakness, and arthralgia. Multi-systemic involvement may occur, particularly affecting the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Widespread small vessel vasculitis has been also demonstrated. Testing for cryoglobulins is useful in patients with vasculitis, glomerulonephritis, and lymphoproliferative diseases. It is also helpful in patients with macroglobulinaemia or myeloma in whom symptoms occur with cold exposure.
Negative
Positive samples are reported as percent, then characterised into Type I, II or III cryoglobulinaemia.
Collect samples in pre-warmed syringe/vacutainer. Put samples in water-tight specimen bag then place tubes inside a Thermal flask containing 38-42 °C water. Failure to adhere to specimen handling instructions may cause false-negative results.
St Thomas' Hospital
Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7EH
Cryoglobulin is requested on Beaker/EPIC as “Cryoglobulin profile”
Last updated: 07/03/2024