Immunoglobulin M, Quantitative
Also known as: IgM, Serum, Quantitative IgM, Serum
Use
Evaluate humoral immunity; establish the diagnosis and monitor therapy in macroglobulinemia of Waldenström or plasma cell myeloma. IgM levels are used to evaluate likelihood of in utero infections or acuteness of infection.
Special Instructions
Indicate the patient's age on the test request form. Samples suspected of having macroglobulins or cryoglobulins should be drawn and held at 37°C. Samples suspected of containing cold agglutinins should not be refrigerated prior to serum separation from clot.
Limitations
Quantitation of IgM can have several limitations, including potential interference from hemolysis, lipemia, or the presence of high concentrations of monoclonal IgM. The stability of serum samples is affected by storage conditions, and improper handling can result in degradation or alterations in the levels of immunoglobulins.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunoturbidimetric)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 2472-9
- 2472-9
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL (adult), 0.4 mL (pediatric)
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Storage Instructions
Samples suspected of having macroglobulins or cryoglobulins should be drawn and held at 37°C. Samples suspected of containing cold agglutinins should not be refrigerated prior to serum separation from clot.
Causes for Rejection
Excessive lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |