Skip to content

Immunoassay for Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Subclasses (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures the levels of different types of Immunoglobulin G (IgG), a key protein in your immune system, in your blood serum. IgG helps protect your body from infections and diseases.

Quick summary

["IgG subclasses play distinct roles in immunity and may be checked if you have suspected immune deficiencies or autoimmune conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110046-0
Short code
CASIGG
Synonyms
Casein IgG Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) — red-top or gold-top tube; alternatively plain red-top tube with serum separation
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
20
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) / Quantitative IgG Immunoassay
CPT
86001
SNOMED
395127008
Specimen volume
1-2 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL); pediatric minimum 0.3 mL serum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or lower): 30 days; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
50
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unusual fatigue, or if you’ve been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder. It can also help assess immune function in conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or certain immune system disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

IgG is the most abundant antibody in your blood, but it’s divided into four subclasses (IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4). Abnormal levels may indicate immune system issues, such as low resistance to infections or overactive immune responses.

Common Conditions Linked to IgG Levels

Low IgG levels can weaken your immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. High levels may be seen in autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammation. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your health history and symptoms.

Reference range

Negative: <10 U/mL; Low/Moderate Positive: 10-20 U/mL; High Positive: >20 U/mL (Reference ranges vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer)N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient may continue normal diet prior to specimen collection unless otherwise directed by clinician

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG subclass levels

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal IgG subclass result mean?
An abnormal result may suggest an immune system disorder, such as a deficiency in certain IgG subclasses that could affect your ability to fight infections. It could also indicate an autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells.
Will I need to take any medications before or after this test?
No medications are typically required before the test. If you’re on blood-thinning medications, inform your healthcare provider beforehand. Follow-up care, if needed, will depend on your results and may include additional tests or treatments.
How often will I need this test?
The frequency depends on your health condition. Some people need this test once, while others may require monitoring over time, especially if they have an ongoing immune-related illness or are being treated for one.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

Medical Disclaimer

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