| Refers to the presence in the serum of one isotype or subclass of immunoglobulin (Ig) that precipitates reversibly below 37°C. The prevalence is unknown. This serological disorder is almost invariably associated with well-known hematological disorders, usually B-cell dyscrasia (multiple myeloma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia, or chronic lymphocytic leukemia). Type I cryoglobulinemia is frequently asymptomatic per se but patients may develop acrocyanosis, retinal hemorrhage, Raynaud's phenomenon and arterial thrombosis. The pathogenetic processes in simple cryoglobulinemia generally appear to be related to those of the underlying lymphoproliferative diseases. |
