Fetal Autoantibody Profile (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures certain antibodies in your blood that may affect fetal development, often checked during pregnancy to assess risks for conditions like autoimmune disorders or congenital abnormalities.
["Screening for potential fetal health risks linked to maternal autoantibodies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74458-1
- Short code
- LUC NFr Bld Fetus Auto
- Synonyms
- LUC NFr Bld Fetus Auto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-count
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a history of autoimmune diseases, recurrent pregnancy loss, or if certain fetal abnormalities have been detected on ultrasound. It helps identify if maternal antibodies could impact fetal development, especially in high-risk pregnancies.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test is quick and usually done in a clinic or lab. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or recent illnesses.
What the Results Mean
Results may show elevated levels of specific autoantibodies, which could indicate an increased risk for certain fetal complications. Further testing or monitoring may be recommended based on the findings.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps monitor risks for conditions like fetal growth restrictions, congenital heart defects, or autoimmune-related disorders in the fetus, depending on the specific autoantibodies detected.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Autoantibodies are proteins that mistakenly target healthy cells in the body. In pregnancy, certain autoantibodies may cross the placenta and affect fetal development. Elevated levels may signal an increased risk for complications such as placental insufficiency, fetal growth restriction, or congenital anomalies, prompting closer monitoring or interventions.
Short name
Autoantibody Screening in Fetal Blood
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Will I need further testing if my results are positive?
Can lifestyle changes help if I have elevated autoantibodies?
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