Cardiolipin Antibody (Total) - Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies to cardiolipin, a lipid found in cell membranes, which may indicate an autoimmune response. Cardiolipin antibodies are sometimes linked to certain blood clotting disorders or autoimmune conditions.
["This test helps assess potential autoimmune or clotting-related health risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43362-3
- Short code
- ACLG
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgG Ser-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 313388003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- 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
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained blood clots, unexplained bleeding, or autoimmune conditions such as lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome. It may also be used as part of a broader evaluation for unexplained thrombotic events or recurrent pregnancy loss.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a blood draw at a clinic, hospital, or lab. If you’re on blood thinners, inform your provider before the test to avoid unnecessary delays or precautions.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and not tied to a specific numeric range. A positive result suggests the presence of cardiolipin antibodies, which may warrant further evaluation by your doctor to explore underlying causes.
Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results
Positive results are often associated with autoimmune conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), lupus, or other connective tissue disorders. They can also appear in people without symptoms, so additional testing may be needed to clarify the diagnosis.
Reference range
Negative: <10 GPL-U/mL; Indeterminate: 10-14 GPL-U/mL; Positive: 15-40 GPL-U/mL moderate positive; >40 GPL-U/mL high positiveN/A
No special preparation required. Patient should inform clinician of any current medications including anticoagulants. Recent infections may affect antibody levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Cardiolipin antibodies are part of the antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) antibody panel, which includes tests for lupus anticoagulant and anti-β2-glycoprotein I antibodies. Elevated levels may increase the risk of blood clots, miscarriages, or other complications. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Short name
Cardiolipin Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)?
Do I need to fast 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