This is a blood test that measures the presence of cryoglobulins.
Cryoglobulins are abnormal proteins. At temperatures below normal body temperature (98.6 degrees F or 37 degrees C), cryogloblins no longer stay suspended in the blood. Instead, they separate out, forming complexes that can block small blood vessels, especially in the face and hands.
How the test is performed: Blood is drawn from a vein, usually on the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and an elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the band to fill with blood.
A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
For an infant or young child:
The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.
How to prepare for the test: There are no special preparations.
For infants and children:
The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:
How the test will feel: When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the test is performed: This test is most often performed when symptoms indicate that a person's blood may contain cryoglobulins. Cryoglobulins are associated with several disorders. (See "What Abnormal Results Mean".)
Normal Values: Normally, there are no cryoglobulins.
What abnormal results mean: A positive test may indicate:
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
What the risks are: - excessive bleeding
- fainting or feeling light-headed
- hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
- multiple punctures to locate veins
Special considerations: There are many specific sub-types of cryoglobulins, and tests may determine the specific type present.
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
