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Serum Immunoassay for Total Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin G (IgG), a key protein in your immune system, found in your blood serum. IgG helps fight infections and is important for long-term immunity.

Quick summary

["IgG levels help assess your immune system’s strength and detect potential deficiencies or overproduction."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6502-9
Short code
N men sg Y Ab Titr Spec IF
Synonyms
N men sg Y Ab Titr Spec IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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

Your doctor may order this test if you have frequent or severe infections, unexplained fatigue, or other symptoms that suggest your immune system is not working as it should. It may also be used to monitor conditions that affect antibody levels, such as immune deficiencies, certain allergies, or autoimmune disorders.

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, unusual fatigue, or if you’re being evaluated for conditions like immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. It may also be used to monitor treatment progress for conditions affecting your immune system.

Before the test, your healthcare provider will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. In most cases, no special preparation is needed, and you can eat and drink normally beforehand. Be sure to tell your provider about any medications or supplements you take, since some of these can affect your results.

No special preparation is usually needed. You may fast before the test if instructed, but your provider will let you know. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some can affect test results.

During the test, a healthcare professional will clean a small spot on your arm, wrap a band around your upper arm, and draw a blood sample from a vein using a thin needle. The procedure usually takes only a few minutes, and you may feel a quick pinch or mild discomfort when the needle goes in.

A small needle will be used to draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing.

Possible results may show IgG levels that are normal, low, or high. A normal level suggests your body is producing antibodies as expected. A low level can point to an immune deficiency or certain kidney or digestive conditions, while a high level may be linked to infections, inflammation, or autoimmune disease. Your provider will explain what your specific results mean for you.

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., grams per liter). While reference ranges can vary by lab, lower than expected levels may indicate immune deficiency, while higher levels could suggest conditions like multiple myeloma or chronic infections.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Understanding Your IgG Levels

Short name

IgG Level

Frequently asked questions

IgG is the most abundant antibody in your blood and plays a vital role in protecting you from infections. Low IgG levels can weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. High IgG levels may be seen in chronic infections, certain cancers, or as a side effect of some treatments.
A low IgG level may mean your body is not making enough of this antibody to fight infections effectively. This can occur with certain immune deficiencies, kidney disease, or conditions that lower protein levels, and your doctor may recommend additional testing to identify the underlying cause.
A low IgG level may suggest an immune system that isn’t working as well as it should, which could be due to genetic conditions, certain medications, or conditions like HIV/AIDS. It’s important to discuss your results with your healthcare provider to determine the best next steps.
How often you need this test depends on your overall health and your doctor's recommendations. Some people need it only once for screening, while others who are being treated for an immune disorder may repeat it every few months so their care team can track how well treatment is working.
The frequency of this test depends on your health condition and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will decide how often you need testing based on your individual needs, such as monitoring for immune deficiencies or managing chronic illnesses.
While diet and lifestyle factors like stress and sleep can influence overall health, they don’t directly affect IgG levels. However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, managing stress, and staying hydrated can support your immune system in general.
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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