GM1 Asialo Ganglioside IgM Antibody, Serum
This test measures IgM antibodies in your blood that target a specific nerve-related lipid called the asialo-GM1 ganglioside. It is usually ordered to help evaluate certain immune nerve conditions.
["A positive result may support an immune-mediated nerve disorder, but it must be interpreted alongside symptoms and other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111316-6
- Short code
- GM1 Asialo IgM Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- GM1 Asialo IgM Msmt 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 This Test Measures
The test detects and semi-quantifies IgM-class antibodies directed against the asialo-GM1 ganglioside, a glycolipid found in nerve tissue. Because the target is a lipid rather than a protein, the assay is typically performed with immunoassay methods on a serum sample.
Why Your Clinician Might Order It
Your clinician may order this test when there are signs of a peripheral nerve problem thought to be immune-mediated, such as progressive weakness or altered sensation. It is often part of a broader panel that includes other nerve-directed antibodies.
How the Sample Is Collected
A standard blood draw provides the serum used for testing. No special preparation is usually required, though you should follow any instructions from your ordering clinician.
What Results Can Mean
Results are generally reported as negative or positive, sometimes with a titer or index value that indicates the antibody level. A positive result does not by itself diagnose a specific disease; it is a supporting clue interpreted with your history, exam, and other findings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Asialo-GM1 IgM antibodies are associated with immune-mediated peripheral nerve disorders, including certain variants of Guillain-Barré syndrome and multifocal motor neuropathy. Sensitivity and specificity vary, so false positives and negatives occur; results should be used as an adjunct to clinical assessment and other diagnostic testing rather than as a stand-alone diagnosis. Treatment decisions should not be based on this test alone.
Short name
Asialo-GM1 IgM
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I definitely have a nerve disease?
Can this test be negative even if I have a nerve disorder?
Do I need to fast before this blood 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