
Cardiolipin antibodies (IgG and IgM) Test
Cardiolipin antibodies (IgG and IgM)
Cardiolipin antibodies (also known as anti-cardiolipin antibodies) are autoantibodies that mistakenly target the body’s cells and play a role in regulating blood clotting. These antibodies are associated with bleeding and clotting factors, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, and recurring miscarriages. The presence of persistently high levels of cardiolipin antibodies suggest the presence of an antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
The cardiolipin antibody IgG and IgM test detects the presence of cardiolipin antibodies (IgG and IgM) in the blood. This test helps in evaluating an inappropriate blood clot formation in the body. Depending on the organ affected by the blood clots, abnormal blood clotting can cause a variety of conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, lung damage, and kidney failure
Symptoms of APS:

High blood pressure

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Stroke

Heart attacks

Pulmonary embolism

Frequent miscarriages
What is Cardiolipin antibody test used for?
The cardiolipin antibody test is indicated in individuals if they have:

Any unexplained blood clots

Recurrent miscarriages

Autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE
Test preparation:
No special preparations are required to take the cardiolipin antibody test.
Your healthcare provider will draw a sample of your blood from the vein in your arm. The blood is collected in a sterile test tube
Interpretation of the results:
Components |
Normal ranges |
 |
 |
IgG |
14 GPL or less |
IgM |
12 MPL or less |
*GPL – IgG phospholipid units
*MPL – IgM phospholipid units
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Deviations from the normal ranges:
Cardiolipin antibody tests typically yield either positive or negative results.
·      A negative test result indicates that your blood levels of cardiolipin antibodies are normal.
·      A positive test indicates that you have higher than normal levels of cardiolipin antibodies, which may indicate an antiphospholipid syndrome.
·      If you test positive for cardiolipin antibodies, you will most likely be retested to see if the antibodies remain in your blood for longer periods of time. A retest is usually recommended 12 weeks after the initial test
FAQs
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the cardiolipin antibody test?
The results of the cardiolipin antibody test are usually available 1-2 days after the sample collection. Although, it might take a little longer at times
Are there any risks associated with cardiolipin antibody test?
A cardiolipin antibody test is a simple blood test that involves taking a blood sample from a vein in the arm and getting it tested. Blood tests usually do not show any risks associated with it. A slight sting or bruise might be seen at the place of needle insertion which will resolve in a few minutes
I've had two previous miscarriages. Is it necessary for me to have a cardiolipin antibody test?
Yes. If you have had two or more miscarriages with no known cause, a cardiolipin antibody test is always recommended. Both IgG and IgM cardiolipin antibodies have been linked to an increased risk of recurrent miscarriage in women. These antibodies mistakenly attack one’s own body cells considering them as foreign
I had a cardiolipin antibody test, and the results were positive. Is this a sign that I will develop blood clots in the near future?
No, not necessarily. The presence of cardiolipin antibodies in your blood indicate that you are at risk of developing blood clots or other complications. However, it cannot guarantee that you will develop blood clots or other complications in the near future. Even if you have blood clots, the cardiolipin antibody test cannot always predict the frequency or severity of them
Should I be fasting to take this test?
No. You need not fast before taking the cardiolipin antibody test. This test can be done at any time of the day. Make sure to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any past medical history or are on any current medications