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Cardiolipin Antibody (Qualitative) – IgG Class

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of antibodies against cardiolipin, a lipid found in cell membranes, often used to evaluate for autoimmune conditions like lupus or other connective tissue disorders.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess potential autoimmune activity in your blood."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
55444-4
Short code
Deprecated Cardiolipin IgA Ser
Synonyms
Deprecated Cardiolipin IgA Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Is Cardiolipin Antibody Testing For?

Cardiolipin antibodies are sometimes linked to autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or antiphospholipid syndrome. They may also appear in conditions affecting blood clotting or inflammation. This test is not a routine screening but may be ordered if you have symptoms like unexplained blood clots, skin rashes, or joint pain.

How Is This Test Performed?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested in a lab using an immunoassay method to detect cardiolipin antibodies. Results are reported as either positive or negative, indicating the presence or absence of these antibodies.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result suggests the presence of cardiolipin antibodies, which may raise concerns for autoimmune conditions. However, this alone does not confirm a diagnosis. Further testing and clinical correlation with symptoms are needed to determine the cause.

What Are Common Symptoms Linked to Cardiolipin Antibodies?

Symptoms may include blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, skin rashes (like lupus butterfly rash), joint pain, or fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, discuss them with your healthcare provider, who may recommend additional testing or monitoring.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Cardiolipin Antibody IgG (Qualitative)

Frequently asked questions

Why Might My Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune disease, a history of blood clots, unexplained miscarriages, or other signs of antiphospholipid syndrome. It is not a routine test for everyone, so ask your provider why this specific test was recommended.
What Should I Expect Before or After the Test?
There are no special preparations needed for this blood test. You may have mild discomfort from the needle, but it usually resolves quickly. If you are pregnant or have a bleeding disorder, inform your healthcare provider before the test.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects?
Risks are minimal but may include bruising, slight pain, or swelling at the injection site. Rarely, a reaction to the blood draw could occur, such as fainting or excessive bleeding. If you experience severe pain or unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy