Why is this procedure done?
You have a few kinds of immunoglobulins or antibodies in your body. They are IgA, IgD, IgE, IgG, and IgM. This test finds out how much of an immunoglobulin is in your blood. They are a part of your immune system and help your body fight germs. Having the right amount of immunoglobulins is very important. If you do not have enough or have too much immunoglobulin, you could have serious health problems. ‚
The doctor may order an immunoglobulin level to: ‚
- Learn more about why you have many infections
- Check for a problem with your immune system
- See how well treatment is working
- Learn about illnesses like allergies or arthritis
- Go along with other tests to help diagnose other health concerns
View OriginalView Original
What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test. The doctor may learn that you have signs of an illness that needs treatment.
- If the results are normal, it means your immune system is likely working in a normal way.
- If the results are not normal, you may have a problem with your immune system.
- Your doctor may order another test to make a diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood. ‚
Immunoglobulin levels may also be checked on the fluid that surrounds your spine and brain. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Put pressure with your other hand where the needle was. This will help with bruising and bleeding.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your immune system. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/immunoglobulins/tab/glance ‚
KidsHealth ‚
http://kidshealth.org/parent/system/medical/test_immunoglobulins.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚