Beta 2 Glycoprotein 1 IgA, IgG, IgM Test

The Beta-2-Glycoprotein-1 antibodies test is a blood test to detect the beta-2 glycoprotein antibodies IgA, IgG and IgM in the blood. Beta-2 glycoprotein 1 antibody is an autoantibody which is associated with unsuitable blood clotting. The test is used to help in the diagnosis of inappropriate blood clot formation (a thrombotic episode), to identify cause of recurrent miscarriage and in the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). The beta-2 GP-1 antibody test may be ordered when there is an unexplained blood clot in a vein or artery. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath, pain and swelling of the extremities and headaches.

It is recommended that you wear a sleeveless or short-sleeved shirt or a full-sleeved shirt with sleeves rolled up to enable easy withdrawal of blood from your arm. No test preparation is required. There are no dietary restrictions that you have to follow before the test. Certain medications that you are currently taking may affect the test results. So, make sure to inform your doctor regarding all the medications, vitamins, herbs and supplements you are taking. In case the blood withdrawn is to be used for further tests, your doctor will inform you the necessary preparations in prior.

The beta-2 GP-1 detects and measures three different classes of the autoantibodies IgG, IgM and IgA. The test is used for the diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), to detect autoantibodies in a person diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder, to identify the cause of recurrent miscarriages, to diagnose the cause of unexplained thrombotic episodes.

If high levels of beta-2 GP-1 antibody is detected initially and again after a period of 12 weeks and the person shows signs of APS, then it is likely that the person has the disorder. If a person diagnosed with another autoimmune disorder, has high beta-2 glycoprotein antibodies, the risk of developing a clot in a blood vessel is high.

A few millilitres of blood sample is required for this test. This will be obtained directly from your arm. The insertion site is prepared for the withdrawal of blood. An elastic band is wrapped around your arm to make the veins swell with blood. The site to be injected is cleansed with antiseptic. The needle is inserted into the vein and a tube attached to the needle is then filled up with blood. A gauze pad or cotton ball is placed over the punctured area as the needle is removed. The sample is transferred to the laboratory for further examination.