Serum Immunoassay for Total Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Concentration
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.
["IgG levels help assess your immune system’s strength and detect potential deficiencies or overproduction."]
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 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.
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.
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