Cardiolipin antibodies are autoantibodies directed against phospholipids and associated proteins.

The IgM subtype often appears in early or transient autoimmune responses, sometimes alongside IgG.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Investigating unexplained venous or arterial thrombosis.

Evaluating recurrent pregnancy loss or complications.

Supporting diagnosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or other autoimmune diseases.

The test is performed using a blood sample, often alongside Cardiolipin IgG/IgA and Lupus Anticoagulant tests.

Analyte: IgM antibodies against cardiolipin in serum.

Normal Result: Negative (no detectable cardiolipin IgM antibodies).

Abnormal Findings:

Positive IgM antibodies: May indicate APS or autoimmune activity.

Transient positivity: Sometimes seen after infections or in non-specific immune responses.

Clinical Use:

Provides a supportive marker for antiphospholipid syndrome.

Helps differentiate autoimmune causes of clotting disorders.

Guides treatment decisions (e.g., anticoagulation therapy, pregnancy monitoring).