Cardiolipin Antibodies

Cardiolipin Antibodies Test | London Blood Tests

Test for cardiolipin antibodies linked to clotting disorders and miscarriage risk. UKAS-accredited testing for £108 with optional GP review.

The Cardiolipin Antibodies Blood Test detects antibodies associated with abnormal blood clotting and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Available for £108, analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with results typically available within 5–7 business days and an optional GP consultation for interpretation.

What is a Cardiolipin Antibodies Test?

Cardiolipin antibodies are autoantibodies directed against cardiolipin, a phospholipid found in cell membranes and mitochondria. These antibodies are part of a group known as antiphospholipid antibodies, which can interfere with normal blood clotting mechanisms.

The presence of cardiolipin antibodies is strongly associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) — an autoimmune condition characterised by recurrent blood clots, pregnancy complications, and miscarriage. These antibodies can be transient (e.g. after infection) or persistent, which is why repeat testing may be required for diagnosis.

This test typically measures IgG and IgM cardiolipin antibodies, and sometimes IgA depending on clinical context. It is commonly requested alongside beta-2 glycoprotein I antibodies and lupus anticoagulant testing to assess clotting risk comprehensively.

Benefits of the Cardiolipin Antibodies Test

1. Identifies Risk of Abnormal Blood Clotting
   Detects antibodies linked to increased risk of venous or arterial thrombosis.

2. Key Test for Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS)
   One of the core laboratory criteria used to diagnose APS.

3. Supports Investigation of Recurrent Miscarriage
   Frequently requested in women with unexplained pregnancy loss or complications.

4. Guides Anticoagulation Decisions
   Helps clinicians determine the need for clot-prevention strategies.

5. Assesses Autoimmune-Related Thrombotic Risk
   Relevant in conditions such as lupus or other systemic autoimmune disorders.

6. Explains Unprovoked Blood Clots
   Useful when clotting events occur without obvious triggers.

7. Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
   Results can be reviewed with a GP to plan follow-up testing or specialist referral.

Why Do I Need a Cardiolipin Antibodies Test?

You may be advised to have this test if you have:

• Unexplained deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

• Pulmonary embolism

• Stroke at a young age

• Recurrent miscarriages or pregnancy complications

• Livedo reticularis (mottled skin appearance)

• A diagnosis of lupus or autoimmune disease

• Family history of clotting disorders

Common symptoms related to clotting events include:

• Swelling or pain in the limbs

• Sudden chest pain or breathlessness

• Visual disturbances or neurological symptoms

How the Test Works

In-Clinic Blood Test

1. Book Your Appointment

   • Book online or by phone with no referral required.

2. Pre-Test Preparation

   • No fasting required.

   • Inform the clinician if you are taking anticoagulants or immunosuppressive medication.

3. Blood Sample Collection

   • A qualified phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.

4. Sample Handling

   • Samples are labelled and transported under controlled conditions to a UKAS-accredited laboratory.

5. Laboratory Analysis

   • IgG and IgM cardiolipin antibodies are measured using immunoassay techniques.

6. Quality Control

   • Strict internal and external quality checks are applied.

7. Results Delivery

   • Results are typically available within 5–7 business days.

8. Optional GP Consultation

   • Discuss results and further investigations if required.

At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Service)

1. Book a Home Visit

   • Choose a convenient UK-wide location.

2. Professional Phlebotomist Visit

   • A certified phlebotomist attends your home or hotel.

3. Blood Collection

   • A venous blood sample is collected safely and professionally.

4. Courier to Laboratory

   • Samples are transported the same day.

5. Analysis & Reporting

   • Cardiolipin antibodies are measured and verified.

6. Optional GP Review

   • Results can be discussed with a GP if needed.

Your Cardiolipin Antibodies Results – Explained

Results are reported in GPL or MPL units depending on antibody type.

Typical UK Reference Ranges

IgG Cardiolipin

• Negative: < 10 GPL

• Low positive: 10–20 GPL

• Moderate–High positive: > 20 GPL

IgM Cardiolipin

• Negative: < 10 MPL

• Low positive: 10–20 MPL

• Moderate–High positive: > 20 MPL

Interpretation Notes

• Low-level positivity may be transient and require repeat testing after 12 weeks.

• Persistent moderate or high levels increase the likelihood of APS.

• Diagnosis requires correlation with clinical history and repeat confirmation.