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Anti-Glomerular Basement Membrane Antibody (Anti-GBM) Serum Immunoassay

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

This test measures antibodies against a protein found in the kidneys’ filtering units, helping diagnose a rare autoimmune condition that attacks these structures.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose Goodpasture syndrome, a serious kidney and lung disease linked to kidney failure or lung bleeding."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21300-9
Short code
G lamblia IgA Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
G lamblia IgA Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 This Test For?

Anti-GBM antibodies are linked to Goodpasture syndrome, an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the kidneys’ filtering units (glomeruli) and, in some cases, lung tissue. This test helps confirm a diagnosis when symptoms like kidney failure or unexplained lung bleeding appear.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, using a needle. The blood is processed into serum for testing.

What Are Common Symptoms?

Symptoms may include sudden kidney failure, blood in urine, coughing up blood, or shortness of breath. However, some people have no symptoms until the disease progresses.

When Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have unexplained kidney problems, lung bleeding, or symptoms like hematuria (blood in urine) or hemoptysis (coughing blood). It’s also used in cases where other kidney tests don’t provide a clear diagnosis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Anti-GBM Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need this test?
This test helps identify if you have Goodpasture syndrome, a condition that can cause severe kidney damage or lung bleeding. Early detection improves treatment options and outcomes.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result strongly suggests Goodpasture syndrome. Your doctor will work with you to determine the next steps, which may include starting treatment to control the immune response and protect your kidneys.
Can this test be done at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy