Cryoglobulin Profile (Quantitative and Qualitative)
This test measures the presence and type of proteins called cryoglobulins in your blood, which can form clumps when cooled. These proteins may indicate conditions like autoimmune diseases or infections.
["Cryoglobulins can cause symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, or skin changes when they clump in cold temperatures."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48889-0
- Short code
- COXPIA
- Synonyms
- C burnet Ph1 IgA Titr Fld IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof container for body fluid; serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube if serum is submitted
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Critical range
- — – 200 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
- CPT
- 86638
- SNOMED
- 39511000052108
- Specimen volume
- 1–2 mL of body fluid or serum
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2–8°C): up to 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What Are Cryoglobulins?
Cryoglobulins are abnormal proteins found in your blood that can clump together when exposed to lower temperatures. These proteins are often linked to immune system disorders, such as certain types of autoimmune diseases or infections like hepatitis C.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like cold sensitivity, skin rashes, joint pain, or fatigue that don’t improve with treatment. It can also help diagnose conditions like mixed cryoglobulinemia, which is a rare but serious disorder.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then tested in a lab to detect and measure cryoglobulins. The test may include both qualitative (presence) and quantitative (amount) assessments.
What Are Possible Results?
Results may show normal levels of cryoglobulins or abnormal findings, such as elevated levels or specific types (e.g., monoclonal, polyclonal). Abnormal results often prompt further testing or evaluation of your symptoms.
Reference range
Negative: <1:16; Indeterminate: 1:16–1:32; Positive: ≥1:64. Phase 1 IgA antibodies at titers ≥1:200 are considered diagnostic for chronic Q fever infection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cryoglobulin Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can lifestyle changes help manage cryoglobulin-related symptoms?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy