Skip to content

Insulin receptor antibody screening (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures antibodies that may affect how insulin works in your body. It helps identify potential autoimmune conditions that could interfere with insulin signaling.

Quick summary

["This screening may help diagnose rare conditions linked to insulin resistance or autoimmune disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13633-3
Short code
Insulin Recep Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
Insulin Recep Ab Ser Ql
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained insulin resistance, unexplained weight changes, or if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases that affect insulin function.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring a list of medications you’re currently taking.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood (serum or plasma) is collected and tested for the presence of antibodies that bind to insulin receptors. The method used is typically an immunoassay, which detects these antibodies with high sensitivity.

What the Results Mean

Positive results suggest the presence of insulin receptor antibodies, which could indicate an autoimmune condition affecting insulin signaling. Negative results mean no significant antibodies were detected, but other causes of symptoms should still be evaluated.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Insulin receptor antibody screen

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Result Indicate?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies that may interfere with insulin’s ability to regulate blood sugar. This could contribute to symptoms like insulin resistance or metabolic disturbances, but additional testing may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
This test is typically ordered as a one-time screening. If results are positive, your provider may recommend follow-up tests or monitoring to assess long-term effects on your health.
Can Diet or Exercise Affect This Test?
Diet or exercise alone won’t directly alter antibody levels detected in this test. However, if you’re managing conditions like diabetes or insulin resistance, your provider may recommend lifestyle adjustments alongside monitoring.
  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