Skip to content

Serum/Plasma Immunoassay for Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG and IgM) with Quantitative Measurement

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

This blood test measures levels of antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition called lupus or other connective tissue disorders.

Quick summary

["Helps assess potential autoimmune activity linked to certain blood clotting or inflammatory conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
69037-0
Short code
LPT PW max/CD19 NFr Bld FC
Synonyms
LPT PW max/CD19 NFr Bld FC
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
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
Method
flow-cytometry
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test detects two types of anti-cardiolipin antibodies—IgG and IgM—against cardiolipin, a phospholipid found in cell membranes. These antibodies can be elevated in conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other autoimmune diseases.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune disease (e.g., joint pain, fatigue, skin rashes) or if you’ve been diagnosed with conditions like lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome.

Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results

Elevated levels may suggest an increased risk of blood clots, chronic inflammation, or autoimmune flare-ups. However, false positives can occur, so results should be interpreted by a medical professional.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but avoid consuming alcohol or certain medications (like blood thinners) for 24 hours before testing if instructed by your provider.

Reference range

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

Specimen: whole-blood

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.

This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions where antibodies against cardiolipin play a role, such as lupus-related clotting disorders or recurrent miscarriages. It’s not a standalone diagnosis but often used alongside other tests.

Short name

Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG/IgM) Test

Frequently asked questions

Why might my test results be positive when I don’t have symptoms?
Positive results can occur due to other autoimmune conditions, infections, or even pregnancy. Your provider will review your full clinical picture to determine significance.
Can lifestyle changes affect my antibody levels?
While diet or stress may influence inflammation, antibody levels are primarily measured in blood and are less directly affected by lifestyle changes than other biomarkers.
Is this test used to diagnose lupus?
No, lupus diagnosis typically requires multiple tests (e.g., ANA, ESR, clinical symptoms) and a detailed medical evaluation. This test is one piece of the puzzle.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

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