Definition: A component containing the cryoglobulin fraction of the plasma prepared from Fresh Frozen Plasma.

Properties: Its contents are the major portion of the Factor VIII, von Willebrand factor, fibrinogen, Factor XIII and fibronectin present in freshly drawn and separated plasma.

Methods of preparation: Since the freezing point of cryo is slightly higher then the remaining plasma, Fresh Frozen plasma is slowly thawed at +2 degrees celcius to +6 degrees celcius. The cryo depleted plasma is either extracted immediately during thawing with a siphon method, or if thawing was left overnight a hard spin is necessary before cryo depleted plasma is separated from the cryo precipitate. In any case, Cryo is left as the unmelted (frozen) part in the original FFP bag. Obviously re-labelling is necessary.

Storage & Stability: The stability on storage is dependent on the storage temperature. Optimal storage temperature is at -25 degrees celcius or lower. Permitted storage times and temperatures:

(a) 24 months storage at temperatures below -25 degrees celcius.

(b) 3 months storage at temperatures of -18 degrees celcius to -25 degrees celcius.