Cardiolipin IgG Ab (ACA)

At IntroLab Laboratory in Belgrade, we offer a wide range of immunological tests, including the Cardiolipin IgG Ab (ACA) analysis. This blood test is essential for individuals who want to understand their health status, especially regarding the risk of certain autoimmune diseases.

What is the Cardiolipin IgG Ab (ACA) Test?

The Cardiolipin IgG Antibodies (ACA) test detects the presence of antibodies that attack cardiolipin, a key component found in the structure of mitochondria. Sometimes, the body begins to produce antibodies that mistakenly attack this compound. These antibodies can target healthy cardiolipin present in the outermost layer of platelets and cells. These antibodies are associated with an increased risk of developing excessive blood clots in veins or arteries and recurrent miscarriages, especially during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.

Why is the Cardiolipin IgG Ab (ACA) test performed?

This test helps detect cardiolipin antibodies in the blood. The testing procedure requires a small blood sample, usually taken from a vein in the arm. The test is typically performed if you have symptoms such as:

• Unexplained blood clots
• Symptoms of autoimmune disease
• Recurrent miscarriages

It’s important to note that cardiolipin antibodies can be transient, meaning they are detected only at one point in time and may not be detected later.

When Do IgG Antibodies appear in the context of cardiolipin?

• Presence and significance: Persistent presence of moderate or high levels of IgG and/or IgM cardiolipin (CL) antibodies (greater than 40 GPL and/or greater than 40 MPL units) is a laboratory criterion for diagnosing antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).
• Definition of persistence: Persistence is defined as moderate or high levels of IgG and/or IgM CL antibodies detected in two or more samples taken at least 12 weeks apart.
• Antibody levels: Lower positive levels of IgG and/or IgM CL antibodies (above the threshold but less than 40 GPL and/or less than 40 MPL units) may occur in patients with clinical symptoms of APS. The significance of these levels is undefined. The results should not be used alone for diagnosis and must be interpreted in light of APS-specific clinical manifestations and/or other criterion phospholipid antibody tests.

How to prepare for the test?

No special preparation is required for this test. Like any standard blood test, you can eat or drink as usual. However, discussing your current medications, vitamins, and supplements with your doctor is crucial to ensure the test results are as accurate as possible.

Risks associated with the test

The risks of this test are extremely low, but some complications may occur, including dizziness, fainting, difficulty finding the vein, excessive bleeding, or infection at the puncture site.

How are the results interpreted?

The results of this immunological test can be positive or negative. A positive result indicates the presence of IgG class antibodies against cardiolipin in the blood, which may suggest antiphospholipid syndrome or another autoimmune disorder. On the other hand, a negative result means that no cardiolipin antibodies were detected in your bloodstream.

Reference values:

• <=14 GPL: Negative
• 15-19 GPL: Indeterminate
• 20-80 GPL: Low to moderate positive
• 81 GPL or more: High positive

What is the cost of the cardiolipin IgG Ab (ACA) Test and how long does it take to get results?

At IntroLab Laboratory in Belgrade, we strive to provide quality services at affordable prices. The cost of this test is 1500.00 RSD. The sample processing time is 1 day, meaning you will receive the results on the same day the blood is drawn.

What are the alternative testing methods?

In addition to the Cardiolipin IgG Antibodies (ACA) test, other testing methods can help diagnose autoimmune disorders. These include testing for lupus anticoagulant, Beta-2 glycoprotein antibodies (IgA, IgM, IgG), as well as related analyses such as Cardiolipin IgA Ab (ACA) and Cardiolipin IgM Ab (ACA). Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate test based on your symptoms and medical history.