Experiencing suspected recent infections, recurrent illness, or want assessment of your immune function and ability to respond to new infections?
Detect early immune responses with our Immunoglobulin M (IgM) Test. This important analysis measures IgM levels to identify recent infections, assess primary immune function, and evaluate your body's first-line antibody response to pathogens and immune challenges.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
Think of the Immunoglobulin M (IgM) test as a way to check on your body's immune system "first responders" – the antibodies that spring into action the moment they detect a new threat. IgM antibodies are like your body's security guards, patrolling constantly and sounding the alarm when they encounter bacteria, viruses, or other invaders. These antibodies are the largest and fastest-acting members of your immune defense team, typically appearing within days of an infection and working to neutralize threats while your body develops more specialized, longer-lasting defenses.
This test measures your IgM levels to reveal how well your immune system responds to new challenges and whether recent infections might be present. High IgM levels often signal that your body is actively fighting off an infection or dealing with an autoimmune condition, while low levels might indicate your immune system isn't functioning at full strength, potentially leaving you more vulnerable to getting sick. The IgM test is particularly valuable because it can detect infections in their early stages when other tests might miss them, helping you and your healthcare provider understand your current immune status and catch health issues before they become more serious.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
You may benefit from the Immunoglobulin M (IgM) Test
Essential for individuals with suspected acute infections, recurrent infections, immune deficiency concerns, or anyone needing assessment of primary immune response function.
Frequent infections (more than 4 colds per year)
Infections that are severe or long-lasting
Annual physical exam
How to prepare
No special preparation required. Inform healthcare provider of recent infections, vaccinations, or medications that might affect immune function, as these can influence IgM levels and interpretation.
Understanding results
Results show IgM levels compared to age-appropriate normal ranges. Elevated levels may indicate recent infection or immune activation, while low levels may suggest immune deficiency requiring further evaluation.
After the test
Address abnormal IgM levels through appropriate medical evaluation, infection treatment if indicated, immune system support, or further immunological testing. Work with immunologists or infectious disease specialists for comprehensive assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elevated IgM typically indicates recent infection, active immune response, or certain autoimmune conditions, suggesting your immune system is currently responding to a pathogen or immune challenge.
Low IgM may indicate immune deficiency, chronic illness, certain medications, or problems with B-cell function that could increase susceptibility to infections and require further evaluation.
IgM is the first antibody produced during infection and indicates recent or acute infection, while IgG develops later and indicates past infection or long-term immunity.
Yes, IgM can be elevated in autoimmune conditions, liver disease, chronic inflammatory states, or certain cancers affecting the immune system, requiring clinical correlation for interpretation.
IgM levels can rise within days of infection and typically peak within 1-2 weeks, then decline as IgG antibodies take over, making timing important for interpretation.
IgM deficiency can result from primary immunodeficiency disorders, certain medications, chronic diseases, or conditions affecting B-cell production and function.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
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1
Book your test
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2
Collect your samples
Have your sample collected at one of our 4000+ partner collection centres.
3
View your results
View your lab results and receive a personalised review from the secure Bloody Good platform.
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