What causes mixed cryoglobulinemia?

Mixed cryoglobulinemia is caused by Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in 80-90% of cases. The chronic viral infection triggers your immune system to produce abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins that clump together in cold temperatures and inflame blood vessels. Other less common causes include autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, and other infections like HIV or Epstein-Barr virus.

What is the best test for mixed cryoglobulinemia?

The Hepatitis C Viral RNA Quantitative Real-Time PCR test is the most important test for mixed cryoglobulinemia because it detects and measures active Hepatitis C virus, which is the underlying cause in the vast majority of cases. This test identifies ongoing viral replication that triggers the abnormal immune response producing cryoglobulins. The quantitative measurement also helps your doctor determine the severity of infection and monitor response to antiviral treatment. While cryoglobulin blood tests confirm the presence of abnormal proteins, identifying the Hepatitis C infection is essential for effective treatment that can resolve the vasculitis.

When should I get tested for mixed cryoglobulinemia?

You should get tested if you experience symptoms like purplish skin rashes on your legs, joint pain, weakness, numbness or tingling in your extremities, or kidney problems, especially if you have a history of Hepatitis C infection or intravenous drug use. Testing is also important if you notice your symptoms worsen in cold weather or if you develop unexplained fatigue and muscle aches. Early detection allows for prompt antiviral treatment that can prevent serious complications like kidney damage or nerve injury.

What are the symptoms of mixed cryoglobulinemia?

The most common symptom is palpable purpura, which appears as raised purple or red spots on your lower legs and feet that you can feel when you touch them. You might also experience joint pain and stiffness, extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, and kidney problems that cause swelling in your legs or foamy urine. Some people develop ulcers on their skin, abdominal pain, or shortness of breath if the condition affects internal organs.

Who is at risk for mixed cryoglobulinemia?

People with chronic Hepatitis C infection face the highest risk, particularly those who contracted the virus through blood transfusions before 1992, intravenous drug use, or contaminated medical equipment. Your risk increases if you have autoimmune diseases like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjogren syndrome. Women are affected more often than men, and the condition typically develops in middle age. Having HIV infection or other chronic viral infections also increases your susceptibility.

What happens if mixed cryoglobulinemia is left untreated?

Untreated mixed cryoglobulinemia can lead to serious kidney damage, including glomerulonephritis that may progress to kidney failure requiring dialysis. The condition can cause permanent nerve damage resulting in chronic pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. Blood vessel inflammation may damage your liver, lungs, or digestive tract, and skin ulcers can become infected or fail to heal. In severe cases, widespread vasculitis can be life-threatening if it affects vital organs.

Can mixed cryoglobulinemia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Yes, mixed cryoglobulinemia requires blood tests for diagnosis. A cryoglobulin test detects the abnormal proteins in your blood, while the Hepatitis C Viral RNA test identifies the underlying viral cause. Your doctor will also check for rheumatoid factor, complement levels, and kidney function markers. Blood samples must be kept warm immediately after collection because cryoglobulins precipitate at cold temperatures, which helps confirm their presence when the sample is then cooled in the lab.

How is mixed cryoglobulinemia treated?

Treatment focuses on eliminating the underlying Hepatitis C infection with direct-acting antiviral medications, which can cure the viral infection in over 95% of cases and often resolves the cryoglobulinemia. For severe symptoms, doctors may prescribe immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids or rituximab to reduce inflammation. In life-threatening cases, plasmapheresis may be used to remove cryoglobulins from your blood. Managing symptoms includes keeping warm to prevent cryoglobulin precipitation, treating kidney problems, and monitoring for complications.

How can I prevent mixed cryoglobulinemia?

Preventing Hepatitis C infection is the most effective way to avoid mixed cryoglobulinemia. Never share needles, syringes, or personal items like razors or toothbrushes that might have blood on them. Ensure any tattoos or piercings are done with sterile equipment at licensed facilities. Healthcare workers should follow strict protocols when handling needles and blood products. If you have Hepatitis C, getting treated early with antiviral therapy can prevent the development of cryoglobulinemia and other complications.

What can I do at home for mixed cryoglobulinemia?

Keep your body warm, especially your hands and feet, as cold temperatures trigger cryoglobulin precipitation and worsen symptoms. Wear warm clothing in layers, use heating pads for affected areas, and avoid prolonged cold exposure. Stay physically active within your limits to maintain circulation and joint mobility. Eat a kidney-friendly diet if your kidneys are affected, limiting salt and protein as your doctor recommends. Avoid alcohol completely as it can worsen liver damage from Hepatitis C, and get adequate rest to manage fatigue.

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Mixed Cryoglobulinemia Blood Test

What is Mixed Cryoglobulinemia?

Mixed cryoglobulinemia is a type of blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis) caused by abnormal proteins called cryoglobulins that precipitate in cold temperatures. It is caused by Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in approximately 80-90% of cases, where chronic viral replication triggers immune responses that produce these abnormal proteins. The Hepatitis C Viral RNA Quantitative Real-Time PCR test is the most important test for diagnosing the underlying cause of mixed cryoglobulinemia.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 29, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

support@privatemdlabs.com