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Immunoglobulin Panel (IgG, IgM, IgA)

• Introduction
• Indications for Testing
• Detection Method
• Interpretation of Test Results
• Specimen Collection and Shipping Requirements
• Turn around Time
• Cost
• Request Hard Copy
• References

Introduction
Patients with autoimmune diseases characteristically exhibit significant abnormalities in total immunoglobulin isotypes. A very high incidence of such gammopathies is also seen in women experiencing endometriosis, recurrent pregnancy loss, infertility and failure of implantation after in vitro fertilization. The occurrence of hypergammaglobulinemias has been reported to decrease the clinical pregnancy rate with IVF. Hypogammaglobulinemia of IgA needs to be further evaluated to rule out IgA antibodies before treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin is considered.

Indications for Testing
All women experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss, undergoing in vitro fertilization procedures or having symptoms of autoimmune disease should be tested for the presence of gammopathies. An immunoglobulin panel should be performed on all individuals prior to receiving intravenous immunoglobulin therapy to rule out hypogammaglobulinemic serum concentrations of IgA.

Detection Method
Total immunoglobulin G, M, and A levels are determined by standard nephelometric technique.

Interpretation of Test Results
Normal serum concentrations for immunoglobulins A, G and M are as follows:

Any IgA concentration less that 68mg/dl should be followed up with and anti-IgA assay.

Specimen Collection and Shipping Requirements

• Collect one (1) 10 ml red or tiger top tube.
• Ship at room temperature in prepaid FedEx mailers overnight, next day morning.

Turn around Time
Processing of specimens begins immediately upon receipt at our facilities. Results are routinely available within 7 to 10 days and are initially faxed, then mailed to the requesting physician.

Cost
Included in our fees are specimen collection and shipping materials, all courier and shipping charges, telephone and written reports, and consultation with physicians. Please call (312) 274-1928 for pricing information.

Request Hard Copy

References
Gleicher N, Liu HC, Dudkiewicz A, Rosenwaks Z, Kaberlein G, Pratt D, Karande V. Autoantibody profiles and immunoglobulin levels as predictors of in vitro Fertilization success. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1994;179:1145-49.