Cardiolipin Antibody - IgM (1) Test

A cardiolipin antibodies test checks for IgM (immunoglobulin M) antibodies in your blood. These antibodies form in response to cardiolipins. The cardiolipin antibodies test is used to help determine the cause of: Unexpected blood clot (thrombotic episode) Recurrent miscarriages Prolonged result of the coagulation (clotting test)

Cardiolipin antibodies are found in patients with autoimmune disorders, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). These patients are at a greater risk for vascular thrombosis, cerebral infarct or recurrent spontaneous abortion. The two most common tests for checking Cardiolipin antibodies are IgG and IgM.

There are no necessary preparations you need to do before taking this test. The Cardiolipin antibodies test is done with a blood sample taken from your vein. A blood test done with a needle carries some risks with it including bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling a bit lightheaded. Be prepared to feel a slight sting or pain when the needle pricks your arm or hand. The site may be sore for some time. If the test comes positive on an initial test, then it is repeated in 12 weeks to determine whether the antibody present is persistent or temporary.

The results of Cardiolipin Antibody (IgM) can be compared by the following table 12 MPL Negative 13-20 MPL Indeterminate 21-80 MPL Low to medium positive >80 MPL High positive

The test is used to determine Cardiolipin Antibody if you often have abnormal blood clotting or abnormal bleeding. For women having frequent miscarriages, this test can help healthcare providers figure out why. Many people with autoimmune diseases such as lupus have cardiolipin antibodies in their blood. The test helps to diagnose the disease. If the test shows positive, you might be diagnosed with cardiolipin antibody syndrome. A retest is taken after 6 weeks to see if the antibody stays in your blood.

A doctor usually takes a blood sample from your vein with the help of a syringe or by pricking. The vein is swelled up by wrapping a rubber tube around the arm so that it becomes easier to draw blood. A needle is used for pricking and to draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is collected into a vile and sealed off. The more common test of IgG and IgM are done first. If the test comes negative and clinical suspicions still exist, then IgA cardiolipin antibody testing may be ordered by a doctor.