Cardiolipin Antibody (IgG) – Quantitative
This test measures the presence of antibodies against cardiolipin, a natural lipid found in cell membranes, often used to evaluate for lupus anticoagulant or other autoimmune conditions.
["This test helps assess potential blood clotting issues or autoimmune activity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30470-9
- Short code
- ACLIGA
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgA Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top clot tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 395124008
- Specimen volume
- 1 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Stable at room temperature for 8 hours; refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days; frozen at -20°C or below for up to 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 2
- Lipemia max
- 3
- Icterus max
- 2
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Cardiolipin antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to cardiolipin, a fatty substance found in cell membranes. Elevated levels may indicate an autoimmune response, such as lupus anticoagulant, which can interfere with blood clotting. This test specifically detects IgG antibodies, the most common type of antibody in the blood.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained bleeding, clotting problems, or signs of autoimmune disease. It’s also sometimes used in patients with unexplained venous thrombosis or recurrent pregnancy loss.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then processed in a lab to detect the presence of IgG cardiolipin antibodies using an immunoassay method, which identifies specific antibodies against cardiolipin.
What Are Common Results and Next Steps?
Results are reported as a concentration of antibodies (in arbitrary units or standardized units). Elevated levels may prompt further testing, such as lupus anticoagulant screening, while normal results suggest no significant autoimmune response against cardiolipin.
Reference range
Negative: <10 MPL U/mL; Positive: ≥10 MPL U/mL (values may vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer)N/A
No fasting required. Patient should be informed that this test detects IgA class antibodies against cardiolipin, used in evaluation of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and certain autoimmune conditions
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated cardiolipin antibodies can signal an autoimmune disorder that may affect blood clotting. While not all positive results indicate a serious condition, they may lead to additional testing to rule out lupus anticoagulant or other clotting disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
IgG Cardiolipin Antibodies
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
How often should I get 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