Cryoglobulinemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Cryoglobulinemia?
A rheumatologist, a doctor who treats immune system and joint diseases, usually leads care for cryoglobulinemia. Other specialists, such as a hematologist (a blood doctor) or a nephrologist (a kidney doctor), may help too. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is cryoglobulinemia?
Cryoglobulinemia is the presence of abnormal proteins in the blood. These proteins thicken in cold temperatures. The proteins are called cryoglobulins, and they are a type of antibody.
In the body, these antibodies can form clumps that cause inflammation and block blood vessels. This may lead to problems, from skin rashes to kidney failure.
It is rare.
There are three main types, called Type I, Type II and Type III. They are grouped by the type of antibody the body makes. Types II and III are also called mixed cryoglobulinemia.
Symptoms
Many people with cryoglobulinemia have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they vary by type and by which organs are affected. Symptoms may include:
- Fatigue.
- Joint pain.
- Purpura, which is most often seen on the legs.
- Skin ulcers and skin death.
- Kidney inflammation.
- Breathing problems.
Nerve problems can also happen.
Causes and who gets it
Doctors do not know why cryoglobulins thicken in the cold.
Type I cryoglobulinemia is most often related to a cancer of the blood or immune system. Types II and III are most often found in people with a long-lasting inflammatory condition. Examples are an autoimmune disease or hepatitis C. Most people with type II have a chronic hepatitis C infection.
It mostly affects adults.
How doctors diagnose it
Your provider will do a physical exam and check for swelling of the liver and spleen. Tests may include:
- A cryoglobulin blood test, which may show cryoglobulins.
- A skin biopsy, which may show inflammation in blood vessels.
- A urine test, which may show blood in the urine if the kidneys are affected.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type, how severe it is, and which organs are involved.
For mixed cryoglobulinemia, mild or moderate forms can often be treated by dealing with the underlying cause. Current medicines for hepatitis C clear the virus in nearly all people. As hepatitis C goes away, the cryoglobulins disappear in about half of people over the next 12 months.
Severe cases involve vital organs or large areas of skin. They are treated with corticosteroids and other medicines that suppress the immune system. Rituximab is one of these medicines. It can still cause serious problems, such as life-threatening vasculitis flares. Medicines that suppress the immune system also raise the risk of infection.
For type I, treatment is aimed at the abnormal cancer cells that make the cryoglobulin.
Avoiding cold temperatures can help. Follow your doctor's instructions about any medicine.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you develop symptoms of this condition. Contact your provider if you have hepatitis C and develop these symptoms. Also contact your provider if you have cryoglobulinemia and develop new or worsening symptoms.
Complications can include kidney failure, liver failure, and skin death.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room for chest pain, severe trouble breathing, fainting, or sudden weakness.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care doctor can review your symptoms and order first blood and urine tests. They can also help coordinate visits with specialists and follow your care over time.
Common questions
Is cryoglobulinemia related to cancer?
It can be, mainly for type I. Type I cryoglobulinemia is most often related to cancer of the blood or immune system.
What causes cryoglobulinemia?
It depends on the type. Type I is most often related to a blood or immune system cancer. Types II and III are most often found in people with long-lasting inflammation, such as hepatitis C or an autoimmune disease.
Can cryoglobulinemia be prevented?
There is no known prevention for the condition. Staying away from cold temperatures may prevent some symptoms. Testing and treatment for hepatitis C infection will reduce your risk.
Is cryoglobulinemia life-threatening?
It can be, but most of the time mixed cryoglobulinemia does not lead to death. The outlook can be poor if the kidneys are affected.
Does treating hepatitis C help?
Yes, it can help. As hepatitis C goes away, the cryoglobulins disappear in about half of people over the next 12 months.
Sources
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
