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Total IgG Immunoglobulin (Serum)

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

This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) in your blood. IgG is the most common type of antibody and plays a key role in protecting your body from infections.

Quick summary

["IgG helps fight bacteria and viruses, ensuring long-term immunity."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110116-1
Short code
tTG IgA Msmt Ser
Synonyms
tTG IgA Msmt Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for low or high levels of IgG, which can happen due to immune system issues, certain medical conditions, or after treatments like chemotherapy. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like autoimmune diseases, infections, or immune deficiencies.

What to Expect Before the Test

You can usually have this blood test done at a clinic, hospital, or lab. No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if it’s part of a larger panel. A small needle will be used to draw blood from your arm.

What the Results Mean

IgG levels can vary based on age, overall health, and medical conditions. Your results will be compared to standard ranges provided by your lab. Low IgG levels may indicate a weakened immune system, while very high levels might suggest certain immune disorders or chronic infections.

Common Conditions Affecting IgG Levels

Conditions like HIV/AIDS, certain autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus), chronic infections, or treatments for cancer (like chemotherapy) can affect IgG levels. Children with immune deficiencies or those born with low IgG may also need monitoring.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

IgG levels are critical for diagnosing and managing immune-related disorders. Low IgG can lead to recurrent infections, while elevated IgG may signal chronic inflammation or immune system activation. Regular monitoring helps manage these conditions effectively.

Short name

IgG Level

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get IgG test results?
Results from this test are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
What causes IgG levels to be low?
Low IgG levels can be caused by immune system disorders, such as primary immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications that suppress the immune system. Chronic illnesses like HIV/AIDS or long-term infections may also lead to lower IgG levels.
Can IgG levels change over time?
Yes, IgG levels can fluctuate due to age, health status, infections, or treatments. For example, children’s IgG levels may be lower than adults’, and certain medical treatments (like chemotherapy) can temporarily reduce IgG production. Regular monitoring helps track these changes.
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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