Cardiolipin Antibody (IgG) – Serum
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.
["This test helps assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, including lupus or other connective tissue disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27183-3
- Short code
- CARDIGG
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgG Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant. Gel barrier tubes are preferred for serum separation.
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4
- Ref high
- 6
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 444097001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Serum stable for 8 hours at room temperature (15-25°C); 2 days refrigerated at 2-8°C; 1 month frozen at -20°C or lower. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 500
- Icterus max
- 20
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects IgG antibodies that target cardiolipin, a lipid molecule present in cell membranes. Cardiolipin is also found in small amounts in blood plasma. When the immune system mistakenly produces antibodies against it, it may signal an autoimmune response.
Why Might You Need This Test?
This test is often ordered when doctors suspect conditions like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome, or other autoimmune diseases. It may also be used to monitor patients with known autoimmune conditions.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of cardiolipin antibodies, which can be associated with autoimmune disorders. However, a single positive test does not definitively diagnose a condition. Additional testing and clinical correlation are needed.
What Are Common Causes or Conditions Linked to This Test?
Elevated cardiolipin antibodies are commonly linked to autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other connective tissue disorders. They may also appear in people with certain infections or inflammatory conditions, though this is less common.
Reference range
Negative: <10 GPL U/mL; Positive: ≥10 GPL U/mL; Equivocal results should be repeated in 4-6 weeks. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medications (e.g., anticoagulants, immunosuppressants) or recent infections that may affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgG Cardiolipin Antibody
Frequently asked questions
Why was this test ordered?
What does a high or low result mean?
Can this test be affected by medications or other factors?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy