
Laboratory test
IgM Test (Immunoglobulin M, Total)
Immunoglobulin M (IgM): 1 parameter from a blood sample, no fasting.
Also known as
IgM Test · Immunoglobulin M · Serum IgM · Total IgM · Immunoglobulin M Blood Test · Serum IgM Test
- Sample
- Blood
- Fasting
- Not required
- Expected report time
- 24–48 hours
- Parameters
- 1
- No home collection fee
IgM Test: quick answers
- IgM Test full form
- Immunoglobulin M
- IgM Test price
- ₹1,149, home sample collection
- Normal range (adults)
- Adults: about 40 to 230 mg/dL
- Done for
- Frequent or unusual infections, to check for an immune deficiency; An abnormal protein band on serum protein electrophoresis; Suspected Waldenström macroglobulinaemia or other blood disorders
- Fasting
- Not required
- Report
- 24–48 hours
What is the IgM Test?
This test measures the total amount of immunoglobulin M (IgM) in your blood. IgM is the first type of antibody the body makes when it meets a new infection. The total level helps doctors assess the immune system and some blood and liver conditions.
IgM Test normal range
| Measurement | Typical adult value |
|---|---|
| Adults | about 40 to 230 mg/dL |
Ranges are lower in infants and young children and differ between laboratories. This is total IgM, not an antibody test for a specific infection.
Ranges differ between laboratories and methods. The reference range printed on your own report is the one to read your result against.
What your IgM Test result means
- High IgM
- Can occur with recent infections, some autoimmune and liver conditions, and blood disorders such as Waldenström macroglobulinaemia. A doctor may order protein electrophoresis to tell a broad rise from a single abnormal protein.
- Low IgM
- Can be seen in some inherited or acquired immune deficiencies and with some medicines. It is read with IgG and IgA levels.
One result is not a diagnosis. A doctor reads it with your symptoms, history, medicines and other tests.
Why is the IgM Test done?
- Frequent or unusual infections, to check for an immune deficiency
- An abnormal protein band on serum protein electrophoresis
- Suspected Waldenström macroglobulinaemia or other blood disorders
- Some liver conditions, such as primary biliary cholangitis
What does the IgM Test (Immunoglobulin M, Total) measure?
1 parameter. Expand a group to see the measurements, units and available method details.
Other measurements1 parameter
| Parameter | Unit | Catalogue method | LOINC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immunoglobulin M (IgM) | mg/dL | Immunoturbidimetry | 2472-9 |
The reference interval printed on your actual laboratory report governs interpretation. Intervals can vary by laboratory, method, age, sex and pregnancy. Methods can also vary by processing laboratory.
IgM Test: sample & preparation
Sample: Blood. Fasting: Not required.
- No fasting is required; a blood sample will be drawn from your arm as usual.
Frequently asked questions
Is the total IgM test the same as a dengue or typhoid IgM test?
What does a high IgM level mean?
Is fasting needed for an IgM blood test?
What is the difference between IgM and IgG?
How much does the Immunoglobulin M (IgM) cost?
Can I book this test for home collection?
When is the report expected?
Can I book this with other tests?
Sources: Tietz Textbook of Laboratory Medicine, 7th edition; Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods, 24th edition. General information, not medical advice.
Book the IgM Test (Immunoglobulin M, Total)
1 parameter · No fasting required · Report time: 24–48 hours
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