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Cryoglobulin Detection (Serum)

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

This test measures certain proteins in your blood that can thicken and form clumps when exposed to cooler temperatures, often linked to certain autoimmune conditions.

Quick summary

["Cryoglobulins may indicate an immune system disorder that can affect blood flow and organs over time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
78989-1
Short code
Cryoglob Ser-mCnc
Synonyms
Cryoglob Ser-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, or unexplained infections. It’s also used to monitor conditions like vasculitis or chronic infections that can trigger abnormal protein clumping in blood.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Positive results (presence of cryoglobulins) may suggest an underlying condition such as mixed cryoglobulinemia, which can cause inflammation or block blood vessels. Negative results mean no visible clumping proteins were detected in this sample.

Common Conditions Linked to Cryoglobulins

Conditions like hepatitis C infection, certain autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), or lymphoproliferative disorders may increase cryoglobulin levels. These conditions can lead to complications like nerve damage or organ damage if untreated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cryoglobulins

Frequently asked questions

What causes cryoglobulins to form?
Cryoglobulins form when abnormal proteins in your blood cluster together when cooled. This can happen due to infections (e.g., hepatitis C), autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. Stress, medications, or other health conditions may also play a role.
How are cryoglobulins treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. If caused by an infection, antibiotics or antiviral medications may help. For autoimmune conditions, immune-suppressing drugs or plasma exchange might be used to reduce protein clumping. Your provider will tailor treatment to your specific needs.
Can cryoglobulins go away on their own?
Sometimes, if the underlying cause (like a resolved infection) is treated, cryoglobulins may decrease or disappear. However, in chronic conditions, ongoing management is often needed to prevent complications like nerve damage or organ issues.
  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