Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM
Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM
Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM serum test is used to identify beta-2 glycoprotein IgM antibodies in the blood. Beta 2 Glycoprotein I antibodies are also known as antiphospholipid antibodies. These antibodies target the body’s own lipid proteins (phospholipids) located in the outer membrane of cells and platelets.
This test helps in the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), determining the cause of inexplicable blood clot formation, and the cause of recurrent miscarriages in women. It is usually ordered along with other tests such as lupus anticoagulant and cardiolipin antibody.
Thus, getting a Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test done is recommended if you have any signs of excessive clotting or APS, pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, lupus, etc. to detect the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies in the blood
Symptoms of blood clotting
A few common symptoms of blood clots include
Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Seizures
Headache
Who should get tested?
The Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test is recommended in individuals if they have
Family history of antiphospholipid
Unusual blood clots in the veins and arteries
Stroke
Repeated miscarriages
Preeclampsia
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for a Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test.
Please tell your healthcare provider if you have any medical condition or you are on any medications before taking the test
Interpretation of the Test Results
The units of measurement for the results are Standard IgM beta-2 glycoprotein Unit (SMU)
|
Parameters |
Normal Reference level (SMU) |
|
Beta 2 glycoprotein IgM |
<20.00 |
Deviations from normal levels indicate the following:
• A negative test result (beta 2 glycoprotein I, IgM, serum < 20.00 SMU) means that there was no beta 2 glycoprotein I IgM antibodies detected in the blood sample and the individual has no signs of any clots in their blood.
•A positive test result (beta 2 glycoprotein I, IgM, serum > 20.00 SMU) means that beta 2 glycoprotein I IgM antibodies were found in the blood sample. These antibodies may be caused due to blood clots in veins or arteries, recurrent miscarriages, antiphospholipid syndrome, etc
FAQs
How is the sample collected for a Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this process does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with a Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the needle was injected. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test?
Beta 2 Glycoprotein I IgM test result is usually available within 6 working days after the sample collection. However, it could take longer at times
What factors can increase the risk of blood clots?
Antiphospholipid antibodies increase your risk of developing blood clots if you:
· Become pregnant
· Are immobile for a long time
· Have surgery
· Smoke cigarettes
· Take estrogen therapy or oral contraceptives
· Have high cholesterol levels
Do I have to worry about getting blood clots if I have antiphospholipid antibodies?
The presence of antiphospholipid antibodies increases your risk of blood clots. Neither does this mean that you will definitely get blood clots nor does it indicate the frequency or severity of blood clots.
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