Cardiolipin Antibody, Total (Serum)
This test measures the presence of antibodies against cardiolipin, a lipid found in cell membranes, often linked to certain autoimmune conditions.
["This test helps assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory conditions that may affect blood clotting or other bodily functions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110044-5
- Short code
- CARDAB
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin Ab Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST, gold-top or red-top with serum separator gel)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 15
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 40 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 39517005
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days; Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 40
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Cardiolipin antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system that mistakenly target cardiolipin, a natural component in cell membranes. This test detects their presence in your blood. Cardiolipin is also associated with phospholipids found in blood vessels, which can be relevant in conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or other signs of autoimmune disorders. It may also be used to monitor conditions like lupus or other connective tissue diseases.
Common Conditions Monitored
Elevated levels of cardiolipin antibodies can be linked to autoimmune conditions such as antiphospholipid syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or other connective tissue disorders. These conditions can affect blood clotting and other immune responses.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may fast for 8–12 hours before the test if instructed by your provider, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you are currently taking to your appointment.
Reference range
IgG: <15 GPL-U/mL (negative), 15-40 GPL-U/mL (indeterminate/low-positive), >40 GPL-U/mL (positive); IgM: <15 MPL-U/mL (negative), 15-40 MPL-U/mL (indeterminate/low-positive), >40 MPL-U/mL (positive); IgA: <20 APL-U/mL (negative)N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be well-hydrated. Inform clinician of any anticoagulant therapy, recent infections, or autoimmune conditions prior to testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Total Cardiolipin Antibody
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have an autoimmune disease?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I take my blood pressure medication before this test?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy