Immunoassay for Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG)
This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that target cardiolipin, a fatty substance found in cell membranes. These antibodies may be linked to certain autoimmune conditions.
["Helps assess potential autoimmune or inflammatory risks."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14028-5
- Short code
- Deprecated HTLV I+II rgp46-I Ab Ser Ql I
- Synonyms
- Deprecated HTLV I+II rgp46-I Ab Ser Ql I
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- 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 This Test Measuring?
Cardiolipin is a phospholipid found in cell membranes, particularly in heart tissue. When your immune system mistakenly attacks these antibodies, it may indicate an autoimmune response. This test detects IgG antibodies against cardiolipin, which can be associated with conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other autoimmune disorders.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune diseases (e.g., unexplained blood clots, joint pain, or fatigue) or if you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome. It can also be part of routine monitoring for certain inflammatory or connective tissue disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re taking blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know beforehand.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and not tied to specific numeric ranges. Elevated levels may suggest an autoimmune response, but they don’t diagnose a condition alone. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and other tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High levels of anti-cardiolipin antibodies may indicate an autoimmune disorder, such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which can cause blood clots or recurrent miscarriages. They may also be linked to other autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. While not definitive, these antibodies can guide further testing or treatment decisions.
Short name
Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose lupus?
Do I need fasting for 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy