AB1566 CRYOGLOBULIN TESTING IN A TERTIARY UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL

Background Cryoglobulinaemic vasculitis is a small vessel that typically associated with hepatitis C viral infection (80%), however, it can also be lymphoproliferative disorders and autoimmune diseases. [1] It presents rheumatological, cutaneous or renal manifestations, in addition to peripheral neuropathy. significant morbidity mortality if left undiagnosed. The detection of cryoglobulins serum prerequisite for diagnosis. However, testing methods are frequently influenced by artifact, resulting from ex-vivo cryoprecipitation. Therefore, samples often unsuitable analysis, diagnostic delay, high health care cost, utility, burden. Objectives To assess cryoglobulin at large tertiary hospital Dublin, Ireland. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on all tests ordered university affiliated over five-year period January 2017 until December 2022. We collected baseline patient demographics, location which sample taken (outpatient versus inpatient), suitability results processed samples. Appropriate statistical then performed. Results total 524 consecutive were sent the period. mean age patients undergoing 53.29 (SD 17.40). There number 360 individual patients, 166 (46.1%) females. 223 (43%) not accordingly. Of those 114 (51%) an inpatient ward, whilst 109 (49%) outpatient setting. 209 (93.7%) received incorrect temperature, 11(4.9%) duplicate samples, 2 had sent, one case no received. Notably, deemed only 117 (52%) underwent repeat testing. Unexpectedly, there statistically association between gender, age, date Conclusion This study demonstrates inability process almost half test our institution. undoubtedly unnecessary costs utility. crucial unmet need increase education awareness optimal testing, implementation pathways optimize collection transportation. Finally, failure unprocessed proportion cases raises question initial indication review criterion Reference [1]Kolopp-Sarda MN, Miossec P: Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis: pathophysiological mechanisms diagnosis . Current Opinion Rheumatology 2021, 33 (1):1-7. Acknowledgements: NIL. Disclosure Interests Patricia Harkins Grant/research support from: Janssen Pharmaceuticals, Sharon Cowley: None declared, Aifric Naughton: Jean Dunne: Niall Conlon: Richard Conway: declared.