Anti-Cardiolipin IgM
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM measures IgM-class antibodies against cardiolipin. Together with IgG and lupus anticoagulant, it completes the antiphospholipid antibody panel for APS evaluation. IgM is less strongly associated with clinical events than IgG but remains an important diagnostic criterion.
Turnaround up to 72 hours, estimate Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: what this test measures
This test quantifies IgM antibodies directed against cardiolipin. Results are reported in MPL units.
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: why this value matters
Anti-cardiolipin IgM completes the antiphospholipid antibody profile. Isolated IgM positivity is less specific for APS and may occur transiently with infections, but persistent positivity contributes to APS diagnosis.
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: how the blood test works
- Referral
- No GP referral needed. After the order we arrange the referral through ZorgDomein, within one business day; orders after 17:00 or at the weekend start on the next business day. ZorgDomein emails a barcode, and that barcode is what the draw site needs.
- The draw
- A blood draw from a vein in the arm, at a partner laboratory's draw site. No home kit, no finger prick.
- Results
- Turnaround: up to 72 hours after your blood draw (estimate).
- Where
- 650+ draw sites run by independent laboratories across the Netherlands. Draw sites
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: when is testing worthwhile?
Testing is typically ordered alongside anti-cardiolipin IgG and lupus anticoagulant as part of a complete APS evaluation.
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: symptoms of a high or low value
Low Levels
A negative result is normal. In the absence of other positive antiphospholipid antibodies, no follow-up is required.
High Levels
Elevated anti-cardiolipin IgM may contribute to APS diagnosis when persistent and combined with clinical criteria. Isolated IgM elevation is less predictive of thrombosis than IgG.
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: lifestyle and this value
The same recommendations as for anti-cardiolipin IgG apply. If APS is confirmed, long-term anticoagulation and specialist follow-up are typically recommended.
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM: frequently asked questions
Is IgM less important than IgG?
IgG is more strongly associated with thrombotic events. However, IgM remains a diagnostic criterion and should be tested as part of the complete panel.
Can infections cause false-positive IgM?
Yes. Various infections can transiently elevate anti-cardiolipin IgM. This is why confirmation at 12+ weeks is required for APS diagnosis.
Do I need all three tests for APS diagnosis?
APS diagnosis requires at least one of three antibodies (anti-cardiolipin IgG/IgM, anti-beta2-glycoprotein I IgG/IgM, or lupus anticoagulant) to be persistently positive.
Results without a doctor's assessment
You receive your values with the unit and reference range. A doctor's assessment is not part of this site. Discuss your results with your GP for explanation and treatment decisions.
Anti-Cardiolipin IgM
€65,-