Phospholipid (Cardiolipin) Antibodies, IgM, Serum
Use
This test is useful for aiding the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) in patients with unexplained arterial or venous thrombosis, recurrent pregnancy morbidity, systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease, unexplained thrombocytopenia, unexplained cutaneous manifestations, or possible nonbacterial thrombotic endocarditis. The test measures IgM antibodies to cardiolipin in serum, which, when elevated, are associated with these clinical disorders and are considered a significant criterion for APS.
Special Instructions
The test is available for order by NY State clients and is performed Monday through Saturday with results available in 1 to 3 days. It should be used in conjunction with other antiphospholipid antibody tests for a comprehensive evaluation.
Limitations
Immunoassays for antiphospholipid antibodies, including anticardiolipin, may not completely distinguish between antibodies specific for APS and those produced in response to infections. Antibody levels may vary between different commercial immunoassays, influencing diagnostic results. Persistence of high antibody levels should be documented as per APS diagnostic criteria, requiring at least two positive results 12 weeks apart. It's important to interpret results in the context of clinical findings and other laboratory tests.
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
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia, Heat-treated specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 21 days |
| Frozen | 21 days |
