Ganglioside GM1 Serum Antibody (Screening)
This test measures antibodies against GM1 ganglioside, a type of molecule found in nerve cells. It may be used to help diagnose certain autoimmune conditions affecting nerves or muscles.
["This screening test helps identify potential nerve-related autoimmune responses that may require further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21282-9
- Short code
- GD1a Gangl IgM Titr Ser IA
- Synonyms
- GD1a Gangl IgM Titr Ser IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, nerve pain, or other unexplained neurological issues. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome or certain autoimmune neuropathies.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested for the presence of antibodies against GM1 ganglioside using an immunoassay method. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than a specific numerical value.
What Do the Results Mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies against GM1 ganglioside, which may suggest an autoimmune response targeting nerve cells. A negative result means no such antibodies were detected in this sample.
What Are Possible Next Steps?
If your screening test is positive, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests, such as confirmatory assays or further clinical evaluation to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used as a screening tool. Positive results may indicate an autoimmune process affecting peripheral nerves, but further diagnostic testing is needed to confirm a specific condition. It is not a definitive diagnostic test on its own and should be interpreted in the context of your clinical presentation and other test results.
Short name
GM1 Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How is this test different from other nerve-related antibody tests?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test result?
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