Skip to content

Cardiolipin Antibody (IgG) - Serum

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

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

Quick summary

["This test helps assess for potential autoimmune disorders like lupus or other connective tissue diseases."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42732-8
Short code
CARDIOLG
Synonyms
Cardiolipin IgG B2GP1 indep MoM Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST) - Red-top or Gold-top (Tiger-top) Vacutainer tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
10
Critical range
— – 40 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) - Beta-2 Glycoprotein 1 Independent
CPT
86147
SNOMED
1153410004
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): 6 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
200
Icterus max
25
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What Is Cardiolipin Antibody Testing For?

Cardiolipin antibodies are often checked in people suspected of having autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or antiphospholipid syndrome. These conditions can cause blood clots, joint pain, or other symptoms. Your doctor may recommend this test if you have unexplained symptoms like fatigue, rashes, or blood clots.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider might order this test if you have symptoms that could be linked to autoimmune disorders, such as persistent fatigue, unexplained joint pain, skin rashes, or a history of blood clots. It may also be used as part of a broader evaluation for conditions like lupus or other connective tissue diseases.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a lab for testing using an immunoassay method to detect cardiolipin antibodies. The results are compared to known reference ranges to determine if antibodies are present.

What Do the Results Mean?

Positive results for cardiolipin antibodies may suggest an increased risk of autoimmune conditions. However, they are not definitive on their own. Your doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to make a diagnosis.

Reference range

Negative: <10 GPL-U/mL; Indeterminate: 10-40 GPL-U/mL; Positive: >40 GPL-U/mL. Results expressed as Multiple of the Median (MoM) relative to laboratory reference standard.N/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. Avoid heparin therapy prior to collection if possible, as heparin may interfere with cardiolipin antibody detection. Inform provider of any anticoagulant medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Cardiolipin Antibodies and Autoimmune Conditions

Short name

IgG Cardiolipin Antibodies

Frequently asked questions

What are the normal ranges for this test?
There are no specific numeric reference ranges provided for this test. Results are typically interpreted in the context of your overall health and symptoms. Your doctor will assess whether the levels are elevated and if they support a diagnosis of an autoimmune condition.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of testing depends on your medical condition and symptoms. If you have an autoimmune disorder, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. If this test is part of an initial evaluation, it may only be done once unless further testing is needed.
Can cardiolipin antibodies be treated?
While cardiolipin antibodies themselves are not directly treated, managing underlying autoimmune conditions often involves medications like corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or blood thinners, depending on the specific diagnosis. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy