Total Antigenic Immunoglobulin M (IgM) Antibody Level (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in your blood. IgM is a type of antibody that your immune system produces in response to infections or certain diseases.
IgM antibodies help your body fight infections and can indicate past or current immune responses.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87982-5
- Short code
- T gondii Mar Ql Cult
- Synonyms
- T gondii Mar Ql Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- 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?
IgM antibodies are part of your immune system’s defense. They are typically produced early in an infection and can persist longer than other antibodies. This test helps identify if your body is responding to an infection or disease by detecting elevated levels of IgM.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor conditions such as infections (e.g., viral hepatitis, certain bacterial infections), autoimmune diseases, or to check for past exposure to certain pathogens. It can also be used in screening for conditions like lupus or other immune-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re taking blood from your finger, it may feel slightly uncomfortable but should not last long. If you’re on blood thinners, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves drawing a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm or from your fingertip. The process is quick and typically painless. You may feel a slight pinch or sting, but most people find it brief and manageable.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated IgM levels may suggest an active infection, such as hepatitis B or C, certain viral infections, or autoimmune conditions. Low or absent IgM levels could indicate immune system dysfunction or certain genetic disorders. Always discuss your results with your healthcare provider for accurate interpretation.
Short name
IgM Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this blood test?
What does it mean if my IgM levels are high?
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