Simvastatin-Induced Platelet IgM Antibody, Serum/Plasma — Qualitative, Light-Scattering Flow Cytometry
A specialized test that looks for simvastatin-dependent IgM antibodies associated with platelets, which may help investigate immune-related platelet problems.
["A positive result may support simvastatin-related immune thrombocytopenia, but it must be interpreted with your symptoms and other blood test results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 73148-9
- Short code
- Simvastatin ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Synonyms
- Simvastatin ind plt IgM SerPl Ql FC
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- 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 is this test?
This blood test looks for IgM antibodies that bind to platelets in the presence of simvastatin. It is used in selected cases to evaluate a possible immune reaction to the medication.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order it if starting simvastatin was followed by a low platelet count, unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or other signs of a possible drug-related immune platelet reaction. This is a specialized test and is not routinely needed for everyone taking simvastatin.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and tested using light-scattering flow cytometry. The laboratory evaluates whether the sample contains platelet-associated IgM when simvastatin is present, and reports the finding as positive or negative.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required. Because testing can depend on medication exposure, tell your clinician when you started simvastatin and when your symptoms began, and follow instructions about whether to continue the medication before the sample is collected. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without medical advice.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result may indicate a simvastatin-dependent immune response involving platelets and can support a diagnosis of drug-induced immune thrombocytopenia. A negative result does not completely exclude the condition, so results should be interpreted alongside the platelet count, medication history, symptoms, and other laboratory findings.
Short name
Simvastatin-induced platelet IgM antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Is this the same as a routine platelet count?
Should I stop taking simvastatin before the 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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy