Cryoglobulin, Serum
Use
This test is useful for evaluating cryoglobulins in patients with vasculitis, glomerulonephritis, lymphoproliferative diseases, macroglobulinemia, or myeloma, especially when symptoms occur with cold exposure. It helps in diagnosing cryoglobulinemia and related conditions. The presence of cryoglobulins, which precipitate in cold and dissolve in warm temperatures, can be seen in various diseases such as plasma cell disorders, autoimmune diseases, and infections. Symptoms may include purpura, Raynaud phenomenon, cyanosis, skin ulceration, gangrene, kidney failure, peripheral neuropathy, fever, and malaise.
Special Instructions
Ensure the specimen remains at 37 degrees C until serum is separated from red blood cells. It is critical to follow the specific collection and handling instructions to prevent false-negative results. Use a red top tube for collection; serum gel/SST tubes are not acceptable. The test is part of a profile that includes cryofibrinogen and cryoglobulin.
Limitations
This test is not useful for general screening without a clinical suspicion of cryoglobulinemia. The type or amount of cryoglobulin does not reliably predict symptoms, with thermal amplitude being a better predictor. Specimen handling issues, such as failure to maintain the sample at the required temperature, may result in false-negative results. Gross hemolysis, lipemia, or icterus does not cause rejection, but insufficient volume (less than 3 mL) does.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Other
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 12201-0
- 12201-0
Result Turnaround Time
2-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
5 mL
Minimum Volume
3 mL
Container
Red top (serum gel/SST are not acceptable); Plastic vial for submission
Collection Instructions
1. Tube must remain at 37 degrees C. 2. Allow blood to clot at 37 degrees C. 3. Centrifuge at 37 degrees C. Do not use a refrigerated centrifuge. Ambient temperature is acceptable if absolutely necessary. 4. Place serum into a plastic vial.
Patient Preparation
Fasting 12 hours, preferred but not required
Causes for Rejection
Analysis cannot be performed with less than 3 mL of serum; smaller volumes require a new specimen.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | Refrigerated (preferred) |