What is Cardiolipin Antibodies (ACL) Test

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the uses of the ACL test?

This test detects anticardiolipin antibodies. When the antibodies attack cardiolipin, blood clots can occur. In this process, the blood cells that help in clotting, called platelets, become deficient, leading to problems with bleeding. 

This test is used to gauge numerous health conditions that may arise due to elevated levels of antiphospholipid antibodies. This is known as antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Why do I need an ACL Test?

An ACL test is commonly suggested if:

Your doctor suspects autoimmune diseases

If you may have experienced unexplained blood clots (thrombotic episodes)

For recurrent miscarriages, especially during the second or the third trimester. 

You may be asked for a repeat test after 12 weeks or later if cardiolipin antibodies are detected in an initial examination.

What happens during the test?

The ACL test is a simple blood test wherein a blood sample is taken from the patient through a vein, the entire procedure taking only a few minutes. It is then sent to the lab for testing to find the level of anticardiolipin antibodies - IgG or IgM mainly, in the blood. 

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

No, there are no prerequisites for the test. However, let your physician know about all the medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins, and supplements that you are currently taking, including any medications not requiring a prescription or any other substances you might use or abuse.

Are there any risks to the test?

Like every test involving taking a blood sample with a needle, this also carries certain risks, including bleeding, infection, bruising, or dizziness. The sensation of pain may be felt when the needle pricks your arm, and the site may be slightly sore for a while later. At the same time, there are no known risks in a urine test.

Understanding the test results of the ACL Test

The expected test results vary from laboratory to laboratory. However, a negative test result indicating that you do not have the anticardiolipin antibodies is ideal and normal. This may also suggest that your body hasn't yet fully developed a response to an impending autoimmune disease. Thus, it is imperative to consult your physician regarding the same. 

A positive result could be due to several disorders including and not limited to -

• Syphilis
• Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS)
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Behçet's disease

The presence of cardiolipin antibodies does not always mean that you will develop blood clots. It's merely a risk factor.

Is a high level indicative of an issue?

The levels of these antibodies are often high in people with abnormal blood clotting, autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or in case of repeated miscarriages. However, the presence of cardiolipin antibodies in the blood is not always an indicator of a health-related problem. According to some research, cardiolipin antibodies can be detected in about 1% to 5% of healthy individuals. So, do take your doctor’s advice on the test results. Book an appointment today.

Are anticardiolipin antibodies elevated in pregnancy?

No, not unless you have an established antiphospholipid syndrome or an autoimmune disorder. The levels, when tested during pregnancy, may fluctuate. According to research, a high titer (level) of IgG ACL and the previous history of miscarriage lead to up to 80% risk of current pregnancy loss. Persistently high results are suggestive of impending greater risk of complications.

Can anticardiolipin antibodies cause infertility?

Since antiphospholipid antibodies affect placental growth and function, they may prevent implantation, presenting as infertility.

Do ACL antibodies go away?

ACL antibodies can be temporary or permanent. 

Low levels of these antibodies can occur during certain infections, including COVID-19, certain medications (such as phenytoin or valproate), or some cancers, which are usually transient and go away on stoppage of treatment or cure of the underlying condition.