Immunoglobulin M (IgM Test) For Antibodies

The Immunoglobulin M (IgM) test is a blood test that checks the level of IgM antibodies in your body, typically produced as one of the first responses to a new infection. It helps diagnose recent or active infections.

IgM Test

Here are the basic details for the IgM Test.

Also Known As	Immunoglobulin M Test
Type	Blood Test
Purpose	Measure IgM Antibody Levels
Sample Type	Serum
Preparation	No
Fasting	No
Gender	Unisex
Age Group	Any
Normal Value	40 - 230 mg/dL
Reporting Time	Usually within 1-2 days
Cost	500-1000 INR*

*Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

IgM Test Means

IgM test measures Immunoglobulin M levels in the blood.

IgM is the first antibody produced during an infection.
Elevated IgM levels can indicate an acute or recent infection.
This test aids in diagnosing various infections, including viral and bacterial.
It helps differentiate between acute and chronic infections.

IgM Test Purpose

Here is the basic purpose of the IgM Test.

Detect acute infections.
Evaluate recent or ongoing infections.
Screen for autoimmune disorders.
Diagnose certain viral and bacterial diseases.
Assess immune system function in specific cases.

Immunoglobulin M IgM Test Price, Normal Range, Result, Purpose, Meaning and Interpretation - Drlogy Test

IgM Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the IgM Test.

Before Test

No fasting or specific preparation is needed.
Inform your doctor about any medications or allergies.

During Test

A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm.

After Test

Resume regular activities immediately.
No special post-test instructions are typically required.

IgM Test Procedure

During an IgM Test Procedure, a healthcare provider will:

Collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm.
Send the blood sample to a laboratory for analysis.
Measure IgM antibody levels to diagnose current or recent infections.
Interpret the results to identify specific pathogens or immune responses.

IgM Test Result

Here are Interpreting IgM Test Results.

Low Levels: Low IgM levels may indicate an impaired immune response, making it harder for the body to fight infections.
Normal Range: Falling within the normal range suggests a balanced immune system and generally good immune function.
High Levels: Elevated IgM levels can be seen during acute infections, so consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation if your levels are high.

IgM Test Report

Immunoglobulin M IgM Test Report Format Example Sample Template Drlogy Lab Report

IgM Test Report PDF

IgM Test Normal Report

Immunoglobulin Igm Normal Test Report Format Example Sample Template - Drlogy Pathology Lab Report Format

IgM Normal Test Report PDF Format

IgM Test Normal Result Report PDF

IgM Test Abnormal Report

Immunoglobulin Igm Abnormal Test Report Format Example Sample Template - Drlogy Pathology Lab Report Format

IgM Abnormal Test Report PDF Format

IgM Test Abnormal Result Report PDF

IgM Test Normal Range

The normal reference range for IgM levels in adults can vary slightly depending on the laboratory and measurement units used.

IgM Level	Normal Range
Adult	40 - 230 mg/dL

IgM Test Interpretation

Here is basic Interpretation value of IgM Test.

IgM Level (mg/dL)	Interpretation	Risk
Below 40	Low IgM levels	May suggest immunodeficiency
40 - 230	Normal IgM levels	Typically within the normal range
Above 230	Elevated IgM levels	Potential autoimmune or infections

IgM Test High Levels

Here are the causes of high IgM levels:

Causes	Description
Chronic Infections	Ongoing infections can lead to elevated IgM.
Autoimmune Diseases	Conditions like lupus may result in high IgM.
Liver Disease	Liver disorders can elevate IgM levels.
Certain Cancers	Lymphomas and multiple myeloma can increase IgM.
Monoclonal Gammopathy	A condition where abnormal proteins raise IgM.

IgM Test Low Levels

Causes	Description
Immunodeficiency Disorders	Primary or secondary immunodeficiencies can result in low IgM levels.
Medications or Treatments	Certain drugs or therapies may decrease IgM production.
Liver Disease	Severe liver dysfunction can lead to reduced IgM levels.
Autoimmune Diseases	Some autoimmune conditions can suppress IgM production.
Hematological Disorders	Conditions affecting blood cells can lower IgM levels.

Specimen Requirements For IgM Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the IgM Test.

Specimen	Serum
Volume	1 ml
Container	Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Collection	Refrigerate. The specimen is stable for two days at room temperature and for seven days refrigerated.
Storage	Refrigerate or freeze.
Sample Stability	Temperature	Period
	Room temperature	2 day
	Refrigerated	7 days
	Frozen	14 days
	Freeze/thaw cycles	Stable x1
Causes for Rejection	Hemolysis; lipemia; gross bacterial contamination.

IgM Test is Safe?

IgM Test is generally safe when performed by a healthcare professional.

Minimal risk of infection or complications.
Follow proper hygiene practices during blood collection.

When Do You Get IgM Test Results?

IgM test results are typically available within 1-2 days to a week after the blood sample is collected.
The reporting time can vary depending on the laboratory and specific testing circumstances.

IgM Test Limitation

Limited for chronic infections or past exposure.
Not suitable for monitoring chronic diseases.
Cross-reactivity may lead to false positives.

IgM Test Risk Factors

Low risk, standard blood test procedure.
Minimal risk of infection or bleeding.

Doctor Recommendations After IgM Test Result

Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the IgM test.

IgM Test Result	Doctor to Visit	Reason
High	Rheumatologist	Suspected autoimmune or infection
Normal	No specific doctor	Routine assessment or no issues
Low	Immunologist	Potential immunodeficiency issue

IgM Test Price

Here are the estimated IgM Test Prices in India with different top cities:

City	Price Range
Mumbai	500-1000
New Delhi	600-1000
Bangalore	500-1000
Hyderabad	600-1000
Kolkata	500-1000
Pune	600-1000
Lucknow	500-1000
Noida	600-1000
Surat	500-1000
Gurugram	600-1000
Patna	500-1000
Chennai	600-1000
Jaipur	600-1000
Ahmedabad	600-1000

*Prices are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, IgM Test is valuable for detecting active infections and recent exposure to pathogens, aiding in timely diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

Immunoglobulin M IgM - Wikipedia [1].
Biochemistry, Immunoglobulin M - StatPearls NIH[2].

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IgM Test FAQ

What if IgM test is positive?

A positive Dengue IgM Test indicates that a person has been recently infected with the dengue virus. It confirms the presence of dengue antibodies in the bloodstream, suggesting an active or recent dengue infection. If the test is positive, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly, as dengue can have serious complications. The healthcare provider will evaluate the symptoms, conduct further tests if necessary, and provide appropriate treatment and care to manage the infection and alleviate symptoms. Early detection and management can help prevent severe complications associated with dengue fever.

What is an IgM test?

The IgM test, or Immunoglobulin M test, is a blood test that measures the level of IgM antibodies in your bloodstream. IgM antibodies are a type of immune protein produced by your body in response to infections.

Why is an IgM test done?

An IgM test is performed to diagnose current or recent infections. Elevated IgM levels typically indicate an active infection, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing conditions like viral or bacterial infections, such as hepatitis, dengue, or COVID-19.

How is an IgM test conducted?

During an IgM test, a healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results help determine the presence and quantity of IgM antibodies in your blood, aiding in the diagnosis of infections.