Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM
Understanding Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM
What is Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM?
Antiphospholipid antibodies (APL) IgM are the antibodies directed against phospholipids responsible for blood clotting. This test is to check for the presence of APL that cause abnormal blood clotting and their presence is an indication of an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS). Most commonly monitored APL are Lupus anticoagulants (LA) , anticardiolipin antibodies (ACL) and anti-beta2 glycoprotein. This test is done if a person suffers from inappropriate blood clotting, frequent miscarriages, stroke, or heart attack.
Various complications such as cardiovascular diseases, stroke, kidney faliure and lung damage can arise as a result of APS depending on the organ affected by the blood clots.
What is Anti Phospholipid Antibody IgM used for?
The Antiphospholipid antibody IgM test is done:
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In case of unexplained prolonged PTT test
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In case of recurrent unexplained blood clots
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In case of recurrent miscarriages especially in second and third trimesters
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As a part of evaluation for antiphospholipid syndrome
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To help diagnose or evaluate an autoimmune disorder