How can we help?

Home

Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG

Also referred as

Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody Panel

Cardiolipin Antibodies Test

For men & women

Earliest reports in

240 hours

Contains

2 tests

Know more about this test

The Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG is a blood test that helps to detect the presence of specific antibodies, immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG), that target cardiolipins (lipid molecules normally found in cell membranes and platelets). This test helps diagnose autoimmune disorders like antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), which can increase the risk of blood clots.

Samples required

Blood

Find out

Why is this test booked?

Preparations

No special preparation is required.

Sample Collection

Who will collect your samples?

Understanding Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG

The Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test detects antibodies that mistakenly target cardiolipin. These antibodies can indicate the presence of autoimmune disorders such as Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) , and other conditions that lead to abnormal blood clotting. These antibodies may also be seen temporarily in individuals with acute infections, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) , certain cancers or due to medications (such as phenytoin, penicillin etc.), or asymptomatically in the elderly.

The Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test measures both immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies that help determine the cause of an unexplained thrombotic episode(blood clots), thrombocytopenia (low platelet count),recurrent miscarriage(especially in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy), and with premature labor and pre-eclampsia(pregnancy complicated characterized by high blood pressure). Consider getting tested if you have symptoms suggestive of a thrombotic episode, such as pain and swelling in the extremities, shortness of breath, or headaches. This test can also be done in conjunction with lupus anticoagulant testing as a follow-up to a prolonged clotting time test (Activated partial thromboplastin time, or APTT test).

If cardiolipin antibodies (IgM and IgG) are detected initially, the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test is usually repeated 12 weeks later to help determine whether their presence is persistent or temporary. If an individual with a known autoimmune disorder tests negative for cardiolipin antibodies, they may be retested later as these antibodies may develop at any time in the future. Elevated levels of these antibodies can increase the risk of blood clots, which can lead to complications like Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), stroke etc. Low to moderate levels of cardiolipin antibodies are often of no clinical significance. The levels of these antibodies may fluctuate considerably over time, and this needs to be taken into account when testing.

No special preparation is required for this test However, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements that you are taking, as these may affect the test results.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Do not try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.The insights from this test helps the doctor tailor appropriate treatment plans to mitigate the risk of clotting and its associated complications.

What does Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG measure?

Contains 2 tests

The Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test measure the levels of two specific antibodies, immunoglobulins IgM(IgM) and immunoglobulins G (IgG), that mistakenly targets cardiolipins, a phospholipid found in cell membranes and platelets. These antibodies can indicate autoimmune disorders such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The presence of these antibodies are associated with an increased risk of thrombotic events, including deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in legs), pulmonary embolism (blood clot in lungs), recurrent miscarriages, stroke etc. The Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, risk assessment, and management of autoimmune disorders like APS and associated complications.

Anti Cardiolipin IgG Antibody

The Anti Cardiolipin IgG Antibody test detects specific immunoglobulins IgG antibodies, against cardiolipin, a phospholipid found in cell membranes. These antibodies can indicate autoimmune disorders such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

IgG antibodies are typically produced by the immune system later in an immune response and remain in the body for a longer time period, suggesting a more chronic or ongoing immune system activation. Therefore, the anticardiolipin IgG test is often used to diagnose chronic conditions or long-term immune responses, such as persistent blood clot formation in disorders like antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Know more about Anti Cardiolipin IgG Antibody

Anti Cardiolipin IgM Antibody

The Anti Cardiolipin IgM Antibody test detects specific immunoglobulins IgM antibodies against cardiolipin, a phospholipid found in cell membranes. These antibodies can indicate autoimmune disorders such as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

IgM antibodies are typically the first antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an infection or antigen, and the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood sample may suggest recent or acute immune system activation. Thus, the Anti Cardiolipin IgM Antibody test is often used to diagnose acute conditions or recent immune responses, such as recent blood clot formation in disorders like antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Know more about Anti Cardiolipin IgM Antibody

Frequently booked together

FAQs related to Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG

Why is the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test important?

The Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test is important as it helps detect autoimmune disorders, such as antiphospholipid syndrome and lupus. Early detection of these disorders allows for prompt treatment, preventing serious complications like clot formation and stroke.

When should I get the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test?

You can get the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test if you have symptoms of an autoimmune disorder, such as unexplained blood clots, recurrent miscarriages, or prolonged PTT (means that clotting is taking longer to occur than normal). It may also be done if you have been diagnosed with lupus to monitor your condition.

Does the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test pose any risk?

No, the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test is generally safe with minimal risks. However, you may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection but chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

How often should I be tested?

The frequency of testing depends on your symptoms, medical history, and the doctor's discretion. If you have a known autoimmune condition, your doctor may suggest regular testing to monitor your condition.

Do I need to fast before the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test?

No, fasting is not required before the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test. You can eat and drink normally.

What does positive cardiolipin mean?

A positive result for cardiolipin means that cardiolipin antibody is present in the blood. These can be due to several health conditions, like Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), deep vein thrombosis, recurrent miscarriages, etc.

What are the symptoms of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)?

Common symptoms of APS are blood clots in legs, discoloration, tenderness, and swelling of the legs, repeated miscarriages or stillbirths, chest pain, low platelets, discomfort in the arms, back, or neck, irregular heartbeat, etc.

Is there a cure for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) ?

There is no such cure for antiphospholipid syndrome yet. However, timely and proper treatment can greatly reduce the risk of excessive and irregular blood clotting. Furthermore, consuming an anticoagulant medicine as per doctor’s prescription can help you manage with the symptoms.

What other tests might I have along with the Anti-Cardiolipin Antibody IgM+IgG test?

The additional tests may vary as per your doctor’s discretion. However, commonly prescribed tests include a complete blood cell count, partial thromboplastin time and activated prothromboplastin time, antinuclear antibody test and antiphospholipid antibody test.

If I have anticardiolipin antibodies, will I definitely develop blood clots?

Not necessarily. The cardiolipin antibodies represent a risk factor, but they cannot predict whether an individual person will have recurrent blood clots or other associated complications. And, if a person does have blood clots, the presence of the antibodies cannot predict their frequency or severity. Compared to the presence of lupus anticoagulants, cardiolipin antibodies are lesser risk factors for thrombosis.

Should I tell a new doctor that I have anticardiolipin antibodies?

Yes, this is an important part of your medical history. Your doctor needs this information even if you are asymptomatic so that they can tailor any procedures or medical treatment plans around this risk factor.

Content created by

Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand)

MBBS, MD Lab Medicine

Want to know moreRead our editorial policy

Last Updated

7th Oct 2025