[Immunopathologic implications of cryoglobulins (author's transl)].

Cryoglobulins are proteins which appear in the serum of some patients. Their basic characteristic is their power to precipitate at low temperatures. In this work a review is made of the data presented by several authors in regard to the origin, isolation, classification, and precipitation mechanism, as well as of the factors which influence the cryoprecipitability. We also set out the most probable etiopathogenic theories and the possible clinical findings in those patients who have these proteins altered in their serum. Finally we comment on the treatment with special reference to penicillamine.