Cardiolipin Antibody (IgM) – Phospholipid Antibody Test
This test measures the presence of IgM antibodies against cardiolipin, a protein-lipid complex found in cell membranes. These antibodies may be linked to certain autoimmune conditions.
["This test helps assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, including rare blood disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30923-7
- Short code
- Cr ?Tm Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cr ?Tm Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Cardiolipin antibodies are part of a broader class of phospholipid antibodies that can be detected in the blood. These antibodies may form as part of an immune response to unknown triggers, sometimes associated with autoimmune diseases or other systemic conditions. The test specifically looks for IgM antibodies, which are typically produced in response to recent or ongoing immune activity.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms suggestive of autoimmune disorders, such as unexplained fatigue, joint pain, or signs of blood clotting issues. It may also be used in conjunction with other tests to investigate conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other connective tissue diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed for this test. You may have a simple blood draw, similar to other routine blood tests. If you are on blood-thinning medications or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history and symptoms. Elevated levels of cardiolipin antibodies may indicate an autoimmune response, but they are not definitive on their own. Further testing and clinical correlation are required to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgM Phospholipid Antibodies
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my test results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What are the possible causes of elevated cardiolipin antibodies?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy