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What is cryoglobulinemia?
The term cryoglobulinemia indicates the presence of cryoglobulins in the blood. These are abnormal forms of protein molecules that precipitate at cold temperatures and redissolve at normal body temperature. Hence, when a person with cryoglobulinemia is exposed to cold, he or she may experience impaired circulation in the small blood vessels. This may lead to color changes in the skin, hives, damage to the extremities, bleeding into the skin (purpura), and other problems. The underlying cause of this very rare condition may include diseases of the immune system, of certain cells in the bone marrow, and some infectious diseases. The diagnosis depends on demonstrating the presence of cryoglobulins in the blood and searching for a possible underlying cause.