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 evaluate potential autoimmune disorders, including lupus or other connective tissue diseases."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20425-5
- Short code
- CARDIOLIPM
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgM Ser-Imp
- 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
- 0–99 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 40664008
- Specimen volume
- 1 mL serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects cardiolipin antibodies in your serum. Cardiolipin is a phospholipid found in cell membranes, and these antibodies can be produced by the immune system in some autoimmune conditions. The test is typically performed using an immunoassay method to identify the presence of these antibodies.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms suggestive of autoimmune diseases, such as joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained blood clots. It may also be used as part of a broader evaluation for conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other connective tissue disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum, which is tested for cardiolipin antibodies using an immunoassay technique. This process helps identify whether your immune system is producing these antibodies.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and do not provide a specific numeric value for antibody levels. A positive result suggests the presence of cardiolipin antibodies, which may warrant further evaluation by your healthcare provider.
Reference range
Negative: <10 MPL units; Equivocal: 10-40 MPL units; Positive: >40 MPL unitsN/A
No special preparation required. Patient should inform clinician of any anticoagulant therapy or recent infections.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgG Cardiolipin Antibodies
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
What If My Test Results Are Negative?
Can This Test Be Done at Home?
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