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

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

This test detects antibodies that may indicate a rare autoimmune condition called Goodpasture’s syndrome, which can damage the lungs and kidneys.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify potential kidney or lung disease caused by immune system attacks on body tissues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7892-3
Short code
G lamblia IgM Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
G lamblia IgM Ser-aCnc
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained kidney problems (e.g., blood in urine), severe lung issues, or a history of similar autoimmune diseases. It’s also sometimes done as part of a broader evaluation for unexplained organ damage.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before your blood draw if your lab uses a fasting protocol. Bring your test request form and any recent medical records if requested.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies in your serum.

What the Results Mean

Results are qualitative (positive/negative) rather than numeric. A positive result suggests the presence of anti-GBM antibodies, which may warrant further testing or evaluation by a specialist.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Anti-GBM Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies that may target the proteins in your lungs or kidneys. This could indicate a condition called Goodpasture’s syndrome or another related autoimmune disease. Your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include further testing or treatment.
Will I need to do anything after the test?
No specific actions are needed unless your doctor orders additional tests or follow-up. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath, swelling, or changes in urine, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Some labs may offer at-home blood collection services, but this test specifically requires lab-based immunoassay analysis.
  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