Immunoglobulin M (IgM)
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Group of blood proteins involved in immune function
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🧪 What is Immunoglobulin M (IgM)?
Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is one of the five major classes of antibodies (along with IgG, IgA, IgE, and IgD). It is the first antibody produced by the immune system in response to an infection and is primarily found in the blood and lymphatic fluid.
- Large pentameric structure → efficient at neutralizing pathogens
- Appears early in infection; replaced by IgG for long-term immunity
❓ Why is the IgM Test Done?
To:
- Detect recent or current infections
- Identify immune responses to pathogens (viral, bacterial, parasitic)
- Help diagnose immune system disorders (e.g., IgM deficiency, monoclonal gammopathy)
- Evaluate autoimmune diseases or lymphoproliferative disorders
📊 Normal Ranges
Age Group | IgM Reference Range |
|---|---|
Adults | 40 – 230 mg/dL (may vary by lab) |
Children | Slightly higher in early childhood |
📈 Interpretation of Results
Result | Clinical Significance |
|---|---|
High IgM | Recent or active infection (e.g., hepatitis A, EBV, CMV, rubella, toxoplasmosis), autoimmune disease, monoclonal gammopathy (e.g., Waldenström macroglobulinemia) |
Low IgM | Immunodeficiency (e.g., common variable immunodeficiency), bone marrow suppression, protein-losing conditions, some leukemias or lymphomas |
Persistently high IgM may indicate Waldenström macroglobulinemia or chronic infection.
🧠 Associated Conditions
Category | Examples |
|---|---|
Infectious Diseases | Hepatitis A (anti-HAV IgM), Rubella, EBV, CMV, Dengue (IgM), Toxoplasmosis |
Autoimmune Diseases | Lupus, rheumatoid arthritis |
Immunodeficiency | Selective IgM deficiency, CVID |
Malignancies | Waldenström macroglobulinemia, lymphomas |
🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests
- Specific IgM antibody panels – e.g., Dengue IgM, CMV IgM, Rubella IgM
- Total immunoglobulin panel – IgG, IgA, IgE
- Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) – To check for monoclonal proteins
- Bone marrow biopsy – In suspected lymphoproliferative disorders
- Autoimmune profile – ANA, RF, CRP
✅ Fasting Required?
Test | Fasting Requirement |
|---|---|
IgM | ❌ No fasting required |
📝 Summary Table
Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
What | Measures Immunoglobulin M levels in blood |
Why | Detect recent infections, diagnose immune or plasma cell disorders |
Normal Range | 40–230 mg/dL (adults) |
High Result | Suggests active infection, autoimmune disorder, or plasma cell disorder |
Low Result | Points to immune deficiency, protein loss, or marrow suppression |
Related Tests | IgG, IgA, SPEP, pathogen-specific IgM tests |
Associated Conditions | Viral infections, autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiency, lymphomas |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
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