A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # |
IgM Antibodies
Test CodeCPT Codes
82784
Preferred Specimen
0.5 Red
Minimum Volume
Transport Container
Serum (gold or red top) Tube
Transport Temperature
Specimen Stability
Methodology
Photometric
Setup Schedule
Daily upon receipt
Report Available
Reference Range
40 - 230 mg/dL
Clinical Significance
IgM is the first immunoglobulin synthesized in response to antigenic challenge and accounts for 5 to 10% of the total circulating immunoglobulins. The role of IgM in activating the complement cascade and promoting phagocytosis makes it an important factor in eliminating particulate antigens and microorganisms from the circulation. IgM levels are used to evaluate monoclonal proteins seen on serum electrophoresis, and to monitor the progression or therapeutic response of patients with macroglobulinemia. Levels are frequently increased in viral infections, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic hepatocellular disease, active sarcoidosis, Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia, and malignant lymphoma. Decreased levels are seen in association with recurrent, chronic, or severe infections, multiple myeloma (IgA or IgG), and protein-losing enteropathy (but not nephrotic syndrome).