Immunoglobulin M (IgM) Test - Price, Purpose, Preparation

Table of Content

Introduction to the IGM Test

Immunoglobulins are important proteins in the body's immune system. They are made by immune cells called plasma cells to fight off viruses, bacteria, and other harmful substances the body recognizes as "foreign."

The IgM blood test is a test that measures the levels of IgM antibodies in the body.

IgM is the first antibody produced by the immune system in response to an infection. It helps to identify the essential marker for identifying acute or recent infections. This test is often used to detect various diseases, such as viral illnesses (e.g., COVID-19, hepatitis, or rubella), bacterial infections, and autoimmune conditions.

The IgM test is recommended for people who have symptoms of an infection or are at risk of exposure to infectious diseases. It helps diagnose active infections and assess the body's early immune response. Pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals may also need this test to detect potential diseases that could pose a more increased risk to their health. So, if your doctor has recommended that you take the IgM Test, choose Redcliffe Labs to get the best experience and on-time reports. The phlebotomist will come to your place, and you will be tested from home. 

The test helps in early detection and allows timely intervention and treatment.

Test details in brief

Purpose of the IGM Blood Test

Here is the purpose of the IgM Test-

• Detects early or recent infections in the body.
• Helps diagnose viral infections such as COVID-19, hepatitis, or rubella.
• Identifies bacterial infections and autoimmune conditions.
• Assesses the immune system’s immediate response to a new infection.
• Monitors acute immune reactions in immunocompromised patients.
• Helps to diagnose congenital infections in newborns.
• Determines the cause of recurrent infections due to immune deficiency.
• It helps differentiate between primary and secondary infections.

What does the IGM Blood Test detect?

An immunoglobulin (IgM) test measures the IgM antibodies in your blood. The body makes antibodies, or immunoglobulins, to fight other things. The IgM test can help diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including: 

• Immune system health—If you are often sick with infections or diarrhea, an immunoglobulin blood test can check the health of your immune system. 
• Autoimmune disorders—An IgM blood test helps diagnose and monitor the risk of autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. 
• Infections—An immunoglobulin or IgM blood test can help check for certain infections in babies who may be born with them, including syphilis or toxoplasmosis. 
• Chronic inflammation- An IgM test may be recommended when a person has signs of chronic inflammation. 
• Dengue fever- A positive dengue IgM test suggests a recent dengue infection. 

When someone gets infected with a bacteria or virus, their body first rises in IgM levels. After that, the body usually mounts an IgG, later, long-lasting response.

Preparation for the IGM Blood Test

The IgM Test does not require any special preparation. Here is what you need to follow-

• No Fasting Required- You do not need to fast before the test. You can eat and drink as usual.
• Inform About Medications—Tell your doctor if you take any medications or supplements, as some may affect the results.
• Disclose Your Health Conditions—If you have any health issues, inform your doctor about them, as they may influence your IgM levels.
• Stay Hydrated- Consume more water, making the blood draw easier.
• Follow Specific Instructions- If your healthcare provider gives you specific instructions, such as stopping certain medications, follow them.

The procedure of the IGM Blood Test

No special preparation is required before the IgM blood test. All you just need to do is follow the below instructions- 

• The phlebotomist will ask you to fold the sleeves.
• Next, he will tie a tourniquet on the arm and clean the arm area with an antiseptic solution. 
• Next, he will use a sterile needle to collect the blood sample. 
• After collecting the sample, he removes the needle and applies cotton gauze or a bandage over the puncture site.
• You may experience minor discomfort or bruising at the puncture site, which should go away quickly. No specific aftercare is required.
• Next, the blood sample is sent to a laboratory where the IgM levels are analyzed to detect the presence of infections or immune responses.
• The test results will be available 15 hours after the sample is collected. Your doctor will review and explain the findings.

What do the IGM Blood Test reports indicate?

Abnormal test results show that something is impacting the immune system, indicating the need for additional testing. While immunoglobulin testing is not diagnostic, it helps identify the underlying disease or condition. Several conditions are associated with both elevated and reduced immunoglobulin levels. Here's what the reports may indicate:

High Levels

• High levels of IgM indicate a recent or active infection, such as a viral (e.g., COVID-19, hepatitis, or rubella), bacterial, or parasitic infection.
• High IgM levels can sometimes be seen in autoimmune conditions where your immune system erroneously attacks healthy tissues.

Some possible causes of high igM levels are

• An autoimmune disease
• Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• A chronic infection
• Certain cancers like Multiple myeloma, Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), Lymphoma, Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia

Normal IgM Levels

• If the IgM levels are within the normal range, it may indicate no recent or ongoing infection.

Low IgM Levels

• Low IgM levels may indicate an immune system disorder or immunodeficiency, making the body more susceptible to infections.
• It could suggest the body is dealing with a long-term infection where the initial immune response has faded.

Some possible causes of low IgM levels are- 

• Kidney disease
• Serious burns
• Certain malabsorption disorders
• Malnutrition

Consult your reports with the doctor to understand the results.

Who should take the IGM Blood Test?

The IgM blood test is recommended for people in the following situations:

• People who are suspected of Infection
• People with autoimmune diseases.
• Newborns with Congenital Infections
• Immunocompromised Patients
• Recurrent Infections
• Exposure to Infectious Diseases

This test is useful for diagnosing early-stage infections and evaluating immune system health.

What is the IGM Blood Test price at Redcliffe Labs?

The Igm Test price At Redcliffe Labs is INR 470. You can book your test at affordable prices with us from the comfort of your home. Our professional phlebotomists ensure a quick and painless blood collection experience. Moreover, we ensure that we provide fast and reliable results, often available within 15 to 24 hours of sample collection. We have a team of qualified professionals who handle your samples with care and ensure accurate testing.

Along with the IgM test, Redcliffe Labs offers various tests and health checkup packages to meet all your health monitoring needs. We also offer free consultations with doctors for personalized guidance based on your test results. Choose Redcliffe Labs to get the best home sample experience.

Immunoglobulin M (IgM) Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer Immunoglobulin M (IgM) Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Book your IGM Blood Test Today!

The IgM blood test is crucial for detecting and diagnosing infections and immune responses early. It measures the levels of Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies produced by the immune system in response to new infections or foreign substances. 

Moreover, the IgM test plays a significant role in monitoring autoimmune conditions and assessing immune function in immunocompromised patients. 

The timely results from the IgM blood test facilitate prompt medical interventions, allowing healthcare providers to initiate appropriate treatments and prevent complications. Choosing this test can lead to improved diagnosis and better management of infectious diseases.