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 or inflammatory conditions, including lupus or other connective tissue disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43363-1
- Short code
- CARDIGM
- Synonyms
- Cardiolipin IgM Ser-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacutainer tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 14
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
- CPT
- 86147
- SNOMED
- 444020000
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
Cardiolipin antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to cardiolipin, a natural component of cell membranes. Elevated levels may suggest an autoimmune reaction, though they are not specific to any single condition. The test checks for IgG antibodies, which are one type of antibody your body makes to fight infections or other threats.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune diseases, such as joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained rashes. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other connective tissue disorders.
Common Reasons for Testing
Common reasons include unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, chronic fatigue, or symptoms that suggest an autoimmune response. It is sometimes used as part of a screening or confirmatory test for conditions like lupus or other autoimmune disorders.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect cardiolipin antibodies. No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods for a short time if instructed by your provider.
Reference range
Negative: <10 MPL U/mL; Equivocal: 10-14 MPL U/mL; Positive: >14 MPL U/mL. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary.
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 or Negative Result Mean?
Can This Test Be Used Alone to Diagnose an Autoimmune Disease?
Are There Any Side Effects or Risks from 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