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Transient pseudoleukocytosis caused by cryocrystalglobulinemia
Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
|April 1, 1978
Summary
Pseudoleukocytosis in Sjögren's syndrome patients can be caused by cryoglobulin crystallization. This transient lab artifact highlights the need for careful interpretation of leukocyte counts in certain conditions.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Immunology
- Clinical Chemistry
Background:
- Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disorder.
- Cryoglobulinemia involves abnormal proteins in the blood.
- Accurate leukocyte counts are crucial for diagnosis and monitoring.
Observation:
- A patient with Sjögren's syndrome and cryoglobulinemia exhibited pseudoleukocytosis.
- Automated leukocyte counts were falsely elevated due to spontaneous cryoglobulin crystallization.
Findings:
- The pseudoleukocytosis phenomenon was transient.
- Crystal disappearance without cryoglobulin level change suggests plasma component interaction.
- Cryoglobulin crystallization is a key factor in this laboratory artifact.
Implications:
- Highlights potential for laboratory errors in automated cell counts.
- Underscores the importance of recognizing cryoglobulinemia in differential diagnoses.
- Necessitates careful interpretation of leukocyte counts in patients with autoimmune conditions and cryoglobulins.