Serum or Plasma Immunoassay for Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG and IgM)
This test measures antibodies in your blood that may indicate an autoimmune condition or increased risk of blood clots.
["Helps assess potential autoimmune or thrombotic risks with specific antibody detection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14021-0
- Short code
- HTLV I+II p24 Ab SerPl Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HTLV I+II p24 Ab SerPl Ql IB
- 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 This Test Measures
The test detects two types of antibodies—IgG and IgM—against cardiolipin, a fatty substance found in cell membranes. These antibodies can be linked to conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other autoimmune disorders.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or signs of lupus (e.g., joint pain, fatigue). It’s also used to monitor autoimmune conditions or evaluate suspected clotting disorders.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is tested using an immunoassay method to identify the presence of cardiolipin antibodies. The results help determine antibody levels relative to a standard.
What the Results Mean
Higher-than-normal antibody levels may suggest an autoimmune response, but they don’t confirm a diagnosis alone. Results are often interpreted alongside other tests and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated levels of these antibodies can be associated with autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or antiphospholipid syndrome, which may increase the risk of blood clots, pregnancy complications, or chronic inflammation. While not definitive, they guide further evaluation for these conditions.
Short name
Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test predict future health problems?
How often should I get 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