Anticardiolipin Antibodies (ACA), IgM, Quantitative
Also known as: Antiphospholipids, Cardiolipin Antibodies
Use
Anticardiolipin antibodies are often present in individuals with the antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.1,2
Special Instructions
The presence of anticardiolipin antibodies should be confirmed with repeated testing, separated by at least six weeks, to rule out transient antibodies that may not have clinical significance.
Limitations
ACA can be present in the convalescent phase of infections like bacterial or viral illnesses and in syphilis, where they are typically transient and not linked to clinical complications. These antibodies are also seen in the context of autoimmunity and malignancy and may arise due to certain medications, making it necessary to distinguish transient from clinically significant antibodies. The diagnosis of APS should not rely on a single ACA result but on sustained positivity over time.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 3182-3
- 3182-3
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; lipemia; icteric specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |