Cardiolipin Antibody (IgM) – Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies to cardiolipin, a lipid found in cell membranes, often used to evaluate for lupus anticoagulant or antiphospholipid syndrome.
["Helps assess rare blood clotting disorders linked to autoimmune conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42734-4
- Short code
- ACLIGM
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgM B2GP1 indep MoM Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) - red/gray top or gold top
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Critical range
- — – 15 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 313677003
- Specimen volume
- 1.0 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Cardiolipin antibodies (specifically IgM subtype) are detected using an immunoassay method. This test checks for proteins in your blood that mistakenly target cardiolipin, which can interfere with normal blood clotting processes.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of blood clots (e.g., deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism), unexplained bleeding, or a history of autoimmune diseases like lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often part of a broader evaluation for conditions where blood clotting behaves abnormally, such as recurrent miscarriages, stroke, or kidney problems.
Sample Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in the arm. The serum portion (liquid after clotting) is used for testing. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be advised if your provider specifies it.
Reference range
Negative: <10 MPL U/mL; Indeterminate: 10-14 MPL U/mL; Positive: ≥15 MPL U/mLN/A
No fasting required. Patient should be well-hydrated. Inform provider of current anticoagulant or immunosuppressive therapy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results may indicate an underlying autoimmune disorder affecting blood clotting mechanisms. While not definitive, elevated levels can prompt further testing to rule out conditions like lupus anticoagulant or antiphospholipid syndrome, which can increase clot risk or bleeding tendencies.
Short name
IgM Cardiolipin Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink 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