Serum or Plasma Quantitative Immunoassay for Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG and IgM)
This test measures the levels of antibodies (IgG and IgM) that target cardiolipin, a protein found in cell membranes. These antibodies may indicate an autoimmune response.
["Assesses immune system involvement in potential autoimmune conditions linked to cardiolipin antibodies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9963-0
- Short code
- QRS I-Amp L-AVR
- Synonyms
- QRS I-Amp L-AVR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ekg
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects two types of antibodies: IgG and IgM, which target cardiolipin—a protein associated with cell membranes. These antibodies can be part of a broader autoimmune response, often linked to conditions like lupus or other connective tissue disorders.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of autoimmune diseases, such as joint pain, fatigue, or unexplained blood clots. It can also be used to monitor certain conditions like antiphospholipid syndrome.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result suggests the presence of elevated cardiolipin antibodies, which may indicate an autoimmune response. However, this alone doesn’t diagnose a specific condition—results are usually interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and other tests.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is tested using an immunoassay method to measure antibody levels. The test is typically done in a lab and may take several days for results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Anti-cardiolipin antibodies are often associated with autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which can increase the risk of blood clots, miscarriages, or chronic inflammation. While not definitive, elevated levels may prompt further evaluation for these conditions.
Short name
Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
What Are Common Symptoms That Might Lead to This Test?
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
Can Diet or Supplements Affect This Test?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy