Factor-VIII-related antigen and cold-insoluble globulin in leukemias and carcinomas.

An elevated plasma level of the factor-VIII-related antigen is not specific for leukemias and malignancies but is also observed in inflammations and in rheumatic diseases. As a reason for this nonspecific change an increased tissue breakdown has to be considered as well as an impaired elimination of the protein, possibly in some cases in the course of a consumption coagulopathy. The plasma levels of the cold-insoluble globulin were reduced in chronic lymphatic leukemias and in acute inflammations, but elevated in rheumatic diseases. Production and liberation of the cold-insoluble globulin may not only be changed by malignant transformation of cells but also by inflammatory and infectious processes.