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: Cryoglobulin, Serum, Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

: This test measures the amount of cryoglobulins in a serum sample. Cryoglobulins are proteins that clump together when blood is cooled and can affect circulation.

Quick summary

[": A cryoglobulin result helps your care team check for abnormal cold-sensitive proteins in your blood."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
40581-1
Short code
Cryoglob IgM Ser Inc-mCnc
Synonyms
Cryoglob IgM Ser Inc-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
deg-c-incubation
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 Are Cryoglobulins?

: Cryoglobulins are antibodies or antibody-protein complexes that become insoluble and precipitate when serum is chilled below normal body temperature and redissolve when warmed. Their presence can be associated with certain infections, autoimmune conditions, and blood disorders.

: How the Sample Is Collected

: A blood sample is drawn and the serum is separated. The serum must be kept warm during transport and processing, because cooling can cause cryoglobulins to precipitate before testing and affect the result.

: What the Test Measures

: The test detects and, when present, estimates the concentration of cryoglobulins in serum. Results are typically reported qualitatively (present or absent) and may include a quantitative level when cryoprecipitate is found.

: What to Expect

: This is a routine blood draw. Tell your care team about any symptoms such as cold sensitivity, skin changes, or circulation problems, and about medications or health conditions that could affect results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: Cryoglobulins can be seen with hepatitis C and other infections, autoimmune diseases, and some lymphoproliferative disorders. A positive result may prompt further testing, and results should always be interpreted alongside your symptoms, history, and other laboratory findings.

Short name

: Cryoglobulins

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast for this test?
: Fasting is usually not required, but follow any specific instructions from your ordering provider or laboratory.
: Can temperature affect my result?
: Yes. Proper warm handling of the sample is important, because cryoglobulins can precipitate if the blood cools. The laboratory uses controlled handling to help ensure an accurate result.
: What does a positive result mean?
: A positive result means cryoglobulins were detected. It does not by itself diagnose a specific condition; your provider will consider it with your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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