Serum Cryoglobulin Profile (Qualitative)
This test checks for abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins in your blood that may form clumps when cooled, potentially causing symptoms like fatigue or swelling.
["Cryoglobulins can signal underlying conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15173-8
- Short code
- Cryoglob IgM Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Cryoglob IgM Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is a Cryoglobulin?
Cryoglobulins are proteins in your blood that can clump together when exposed to cold temperatures. These clumps may block small blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, or skin changes. They can be made up of a mix of immune system proteins (like immunoglobulins) and other substances.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fevers, joint pain, skin rashes, or fatigue that don’t improve with other treatments. It’s also used to monitor conditions like chronic hepatitis or autoimmune diseases that can cause cryoglobulins.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then tested to detect the presence of cryoglobulins. The test involves cooling the sample to see if proteins clump, which confirms abnormal levels.
What Are Possible Results?
A positive result means cryoglobulins are present. The test doesn’t provide exact amounts, but it helps identify whether further testing (like confirmation assays) is needed to determine the cause.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cryoglobulins can indicate serious conditions, such as mixed cryoglobulinemia (a rare autoimmune disorder), infections (like hepatitis C), or lymphoproliferative diseases. Early detection helps guide treatment, such as managing infections, reducing inflammation, or targeting underlying immune issues.
Short name
Cryoglobulin Screen
Frequently asked questions
What causes cryoglobulins to form?
Will I need follow-up tests if my cryoglobulin screen is positive?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy