Characterization of cryoglobulins: Some remarks on methodology

Objective. The experience of our group in the characterization of the cryoglobulins during the last 8 years is reported, and the possible advantages of immunofixation versus immunoblotting are discussed. Methods. 25 out of 171 cryoprecipitates studied by immunofixation were also examined by immunoblotting, a technique which has been suggested to offer advantages in analysing monoclonal components. Results. We confirm that immunofixation may be the technique of choice given its easier execution and interpretation, better standardization, and lower overall cost.