Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood draw (serum)
- Fasting: No fasting required
- Turn-around: 5-7 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Direct access - No doctor visit required for ordering
- Fast results - Get answers in 5-7 business days
- Comprehensive screening - Detects cold agglutinin disease early
- Convenient locations - Local labs or mobile phlebotomy options
- No preparation - Walk in anytime, no fasting needed
Who Is This Test For?
- People with unexplained fatigue or weakness
- Individuals experiencing cold-induced finger/toe color changes
- Those with suspected autoimmune hemolytic anemia
- Anyone monitoring known cold agglutinin disease
- People with persistent circulation problems in cold weather
- Individuals with family history of autoimmune conditions
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
Order online - Schedule your test with no doctor referral needed
Visit lab - Quick blood draw at a convenient location near you
Get results - Receive physician-reviewed results in 5-7 business days
FAQ
What exactly does this test measure? It measures cold agglutinin antibodies that cause red blood cells to clump together at low temperatures.
Will this test hurt? You'll feel a brief pinch during the blood draw, similar to any routine blood test.
Do I need to prepare for this test? No special preparation needed—eat and drink normally before your appointment.
How accurate are the results? Very accurate when performed by certified labs using standard hemagglutination techniques.
What if my results are abnormal? Discuss results with your doctor who can recommend additional testing or treatment if needed.
Can medications affect my results? Some antibiotics may interfere with results—inform the lab about current medications.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects and measures cold agglutinins—autoantibodies (mainly IgM) that cause red blood cells to clump together at low temperatures (Mayo Clinic 2019). When these antibodies are present in significant amounts, they can lead to hemolytic anemia and cold agglutinin disease. The quantitative measurement helps determine the severity and clinical significance of the condition.
Who would benefit from this test?
Individuals experiencing unexplained anemia, cold sensitivity, or circulatory symptoms would benefit most from this test (HealthMatters.io 2021). This includes people with acrocyanosis (blue fingers/toes in cold), persistent fatigue, or those over 50 who are at higher risk for cold agglutinin disease. Healthcare providers may also recommend this test when investigating autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
When should I order Cold Agglutinin Titer Blood Test, Quantitative?
Order this test if you experience cold-induced color changes in extremities, unexplained fatigue, or if your doctor suspects autoimmune hemolytic anemia (Labcorp 2025). It's also valuable for monitoring disease activity in diagnosed patients or investigating persistent anemia that worsens in cold environments.
How do I interpret the results?
Cold Agglutinin Titer < 1:40
- What it means: Normal
- Typical action: No further action needed
Cold Agglutinin Titer 1:64–1:500
- What it means: Elevated
- Typical action: Monitor symptoms, consider follow-up
Cold Agglutinin Titer > 1:1,024
- What it means: Markedly elevated
- Typical action: Likely cold agglutinin disease, seek medical care
Results should always be interpreted alongside your symptoms and other lab findings by a healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required for this test. Continue your usual diet and medications unless instructed otherwise (EBM Consult). Inform the lab if you're taking antibiotics, as some can interfere with results. The blood sample must be kept at body temperature during transport to prevent false negatives.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening: Suggested interval: Once if symptoms are present
- Monitoring known disease: Suggested interval: Every 3–6 months
- Treatment response: Suggested interval: As directed by physician
- Symptom changes: Suggested interval: When symptoms worsen
Why early detection matters
Cold agglutinin disease affects approximately 1 in 1,000,000 people in the U.S., making early detection crucial for preventing severe complications (Mayo Clinic 2019). Early identification can prevent severe anemia, improve quality of life, and help avoid cold-related complications. The condition is more common in individuals over 50 and can be chronic or secondary to infections.
Related tests you may consider
Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential and Platelets Blood Test evaluates blood cell types and levels to help diagnose health conditions and track treatment response.
Coombs Direct Antiglobulin Blood Testdetects antibodies attached to red blood cells that cause hemolytic anemia.
Mycoplasma Pneumoniae Antibodies Blood Test, IGM and IGG aids in the diagnosis of disease associated with Mycoplasma pneumoniae.
