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Serum or Plasma Immunoassay for Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that target cardiolipin, a fatty substance found in cell membranes. These antibodies may be linked to certain autoimmune conditions.

Quick summary

["Helps assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory risks."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
105035-0
Short code
BLVIM2
Synonyms
blaVIM-2 Islt/Spm Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile, leak-proof container or bacterial transport medium; serum separator tube (SST) for serum specimens
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
molgen
CPT
87153
SNOMED
1003711000124108
Specimen volume
2-5 mL serum; or 1-2 mL for pediatric samples; sufficient volume required for nucleic acid extraction
Stability
Refrigerate at 2-8°C and transport to laboratory within 24 hours; for prolonged storage, freeze at -70°C or below; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

Anti-cardiolipin antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to cardiolipin, a phospholipid commonly found in cell membranes. This test detects IgG antibodies against cardiolipin, which may indicate an autoimmune response.

Why It’s Ordered

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome) or if you’ve had unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or other unexplained health issues.

Common Uses

Results are often used alongside other tests (like lupus anticoagulant or ANA) to diagnose or monitor autoimmune conditions. It’s not a standalone diagnostic tool but supports broader evaluations.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it lasts only a few minutes.

Reference range

Negative (blaVIM-2 gene not detected)N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting or special preparation required. Sample should be collected prior to initiation of antimicrobial therapy whenever possible to maximize detection yield

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result (above normal limits) suggests a higher likelihood of an autoimmune or inflammatory process, but it doesn’t confirm a diagnosis alone. Your doctor will consider other factors, including symptoms and test results.
Can this test predict future health problems?
While elevated levels may indicate an increased risk for autoimmune conditions or clotting disorders, this test alone isn’t predictive. Results should be interpreted in the context of your full medical history and other tests.
Does this test affect my treatment?
Not directly. If your doctor orders it, it may guide further testing or monitoring, but treatment decisions depend on your overall health and symptoms.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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