Cryoglobulin Profile (Serum)
This test measures proteins called cryoglobulins in your blood, which can form clumps when the blood cools. These clumps may cause symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or skin changes.
["Cryoglobulins can signal underlying conditions like infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33648-7
- Short code
- Cryoglob RF Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Cryoglob RF 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
- 86430
- 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 Profile Used For?
Doctors use this test to diagnose or monitor conditions where abnormal proteins (cryoglobulins) may form in your blood. It helps identify potential causes of symptoms like joint pain, skin rashes, or unexplained fevers, especially when other blood tests don’t provide clear answers.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then tested in a lab to detect the presence and type of cryoglobulins, which may appear when the sample is refrigerated.
Possible Conditions Monitored
Cryoglobulin profiles are often checked in people with conditions like chronic hepatitis C, rheumatoid arthritis, or other autoimmune disorders. They may also be used if you have unexplained symptoms such as cold sensitivity, skin ulcers, or nerve problems.
What Might Cause Abnormal Results?
Abnormal cryoglobulins can result from infections (like hepatitis C), autoimmune diseases (such as lupus or vasculitis), or rare blood disorders. Some cancers, like lymphomas, may also be linked to elevated cryoglobulins.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cryoglobulins can block small blood vessels, leading to symptoms like fatigue, muscle pain, or skin rashes. High levels may indicate an active immune system response or a need for further medical evaluation to address the underlying cause.
Short name
Cryoglobulin Profile
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What does it mean if my cryoglobulin levels are high?
Do I need to prepare for this test?
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