AsseyMethod: Elisa
Abbrevation: ACA - IgM
Sector: Hormone 2
SampleType: S
S.Vol: -
Transport: at 2-8˚c, -20˚c
Storage: 5 day at 2-8˚c for longer time at -20˚c
Test Name: Anti Cardiolipin Ab - IgM
Normal Range: Up to 7
To help investigate unexplained blood clot formation, to help determine the cause of recurrent miscarriage, or as part of an evaluation for antiphospholipid syndrome
When you have had one or more unexplained venous or arterial thrombotic episodes; when you have had recurrent miscarriages, especially in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters
A blood sample taken from a vein in your arm
None
These tests detect the presence of three classes (IgG, IgM, and/or IgA) of cardiolipin antibodies. Produced by the immune system in response to a perceived threat, these proteins are the most common antiphospholipid antibodies. They are acquired autoantibodies that can affect the body’s ability to regulate blood clotting. Although IgA antibodies can be measured by many commercially available laboratory tests, their significance remains unclear and the current UK guidelines do not consider them to be diagnostic for antiphospholipid syndrome.
Cardiolipins, and other related phospholipids, are lipid molecules normally found in cell membranes and platelets. They play an important role in the blood clotting process. When antibodies are produced against cardiolipins, they increase the risk of developing recurrent blood clots (thrombi) in arteries and veins. There is a stronger association for IgG antibodies and venous thrombosis (e.g. deep vein thrombosis), whereas both IgG and IgM may be seen in arterial clots, including acute stroke. Cardiolipin antibodies are also associated with thrombocytopenia, recurrent miscarriages (especially in the 2nd and 3rd trimester), and with premature labour and pre-eclampsia.
Cardiolipin antibodies are frequently seen with autoimmune disorders, such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and with other antiphospholipid antibodies, such as lupus anticoagulant. They may also occur temporarily in patients with acute infections, HIV/AIDS, some cancers, with drug treatments (such as phenytoin, penicillin, and procainamide), and asymptomatically in the elderly.
When a patient has thrombi formation, recurrent miscarriages, thrombocytopenia, cardiolipin antibodies, and/or another antiphospholipid antibody, they may be diagnosed with Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS). APS can be primary with no underlying autoimmune disorder, or secondary, existing with a diagnosed autoimmune disorder.
How is the sample collected for testing?
A blood sample is obtained by inserting a needle into a vein in the arm.
Is any test preparation needed to ensure the quality of the sample?
No test preparation is needed.