Antibody Screening for Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG, IgM)
This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that target cardiolipin, a fatty substance found in cell membranes. These antibodies may be linked to certain autoimmune conditions or blood clotting issues.
["This screening helps assess potential risks for autoimmune disorders or blood clotting problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33980-4
- Short code
- VGCC-P/Q Bind Ab Ser-sCnc
- Synonyms
- VGCC-P/Q Bind Ab Ser-sCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms or risk factors for conditions like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other autoimmune diseases. It may also be checked during evaluations for unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or other unexplained health concerns.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
The test detects antibodies (IgG and IgM) that target cardiolipin, a component found in cell membranes. Elevated levels may indicate an autoimmune response, but results alone don’t diagnose a condition. Results are often interpreted alongside other tests and symptoms.
Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results
Positive results may be associated with autoimmune diseases like lupus, antiphospholipid syndrome, or other conditions affecting blood clotting. However, some people test positive without symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Antibodies to cardiolipin can be part of an autoimmune response, where the body mistakenly attacks healthy cells. High levels may increase the risk of blood clots, miscarriages, or other complications. However, many people with positive results have no symptoms. Your provider will consider the context (symptoms, other tests) to guide further action.
Short name
Anti-Cardiolipin Antibodies (IgG/IgM) Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for me?
Can I take anything before this test?
Will this test be repeated if my results are abnormal?
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