Cardiolipin Antibody (IgG) - Total
This test measures the presence of antibodies against cardiolipin, a natural substance found in cell membranes, often linked to autoimmune conditions.
["Helps assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory risks tied to cardiolipin antibodies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55773-6
- Short code
- CARDIOLIPM
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgM MoM Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Critical range
- — – 40 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) detecting IgM antibodies against cardiolipin, reported as multiples of the median (MoM)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 313631002
- Specimen volume
- 1.0-2.0 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL)
- Stability
- Serum stable at room temperature for 8 hours, refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days, frozen (-20°C or below) for up to 6 months. 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 are proteins your immune system produces in response to cardiolipin, a fatty substance in cell membranes. This test detects their presence in your blood, which may indicate an autoimmune response or increased risk of certain conditions, including lupus or other connective tissue disorders.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, unexplained fatigue, or other signs of autoimmune disease. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), where antibodies interfere with blood clotting.
Common Uses and Considerations
This test is often used alongside other blood tests to diagnose or monitor autoimmune conditions. It’s important to note that cardiolipin antibodies can be found in some healthy people, so results alone may not confirm a diagnosis. Your provider will consider the full clinical picture.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding issues, let your provider know before the test.
Reference range
Negative: <10 MPL-U MoM (or <15 MPL-U MoM depending on assay); Positive: 10-40 MPL-U MoM (low-medium positive); High positive: >40 MPL-U MoM. Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer.N/A
No special preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications, particularly anticoagulants, immunosuppressants, or recent infections that may affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
IgG Cardiolipin Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long will the results take to come back?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
What does a positive result mean?
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