Cardiolipin Antibody (Anti-Cardiolipin) IgG
This test measures the level of antibodies in your blood that target cardiolipin, a fatty substance found in cell membranes. These antibodies may be linked to certain autoimmune conditions or blood clotting issues.
["This test helps assess potential autoimmune or clotting-related risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55772-8
- Short code
- ACL-IgG-MOM
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgG MoM Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top 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)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 39517005
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- 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
- 200
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 40
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained blood clots, unexplained joint or muscle pain, or if you have a history of autoimmune diseases (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis). It may also be used to monitor conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect the presence of cardiolipin antibodies.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are typically reported as either positive or negative for elevated antibody levels. Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of autoimmune or clotting disorders, but further evaluation is needed to determine the cause.
What Does It Mean If My Results Are Abnormal?
Higher-than-normal levels of these antibodies may suggest an autoimmune condition or a tendency toward blood clots. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you and may recommend additional tests or treatments based on your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Negative: <10 MPL (IgG phospholipid units); Indeterminate: 10-14 MPL; Low-Medium Positive: 15-40 MPL; Medium-High Positive: >40 MPL (laboratory-specific)N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should inform the laboratory of any anticoagulant therapy, as heparin may affect results. Repeat testing after 12 weeks is recommended to confirm persistent positivity per international consensus criteria.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Elevated cardiolipin antibodies can be associated with autoimmune diseases like lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome, which may increase the risk of blood clots, miscarriages, or other complications. Regular monitoring may be advised if you have a history of these conditions.
Short name
IgG Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test be used to diagnose lupus or other autoimmune diseases?
Do I need to prepare for 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