Antiphospholipid Antibody, IgM, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative
Detects IgM antiphospholipid antibodies in serum or plasma to help evaluate autoimmune clotting risk.
["A positive result can support an antiphospholipid antibody evaluation, but it must be interpreted with other tests and your medical history."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73536-5
- Short code
- Alpraz ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Alpraz ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
This blood test checks for IgM antiphospholipid antibodies, which are immune proteins that can interfere with blood clotting. The result is reported as positive, negative, or possibly indeterminate.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order it when evaluating unexplained blood clots, pregnancy losses, or symptoms of an autoimmune condition. It may also be used to monitor certain autoimmune disorders.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory examines the serum or plasma for IgM antiphospholipid antibodies. The exact laboratory method may vary, and results are often considered alongside related antibody tests.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required, and fasting is generally unnecessary. Tell the healthcare professional if you are pregnant, have an infection, or take blood-thinning medicines, because these factors can affect interpretation.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result may occur in antiphospholipid syndrome, other autoimmune diseases, some infections, or certain medication use. It may also be temporary. One positive result does not establish antiphospholipid syndrome; your clinician may need repeat testing, additional antibody or lupus anticoagulant tests, and your clinical history.
Short name
Antiphospholipid IgM antibody
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I have antiphospholipid syndrome?
Can this test be negative even if I have a clotting disorder?
Are other antiphospholipid antibody tests needed?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy