Immunoglobulin M is one of the forms of immunoglobulin and is found in the blood and lymph fluid. IgM is one of the largest antibody and also the first antibody produced by the body to fight off any new antigens and microbes affecting the immune system.

IgM antibody is also termed as the body’s natural antibody, owing to its ability to latch on to specific antigens without any prior immunization. The IgM antibody is extremely fast in initiating an immune response towards the foreign substance by neutralising the pathogens directly.

Both elevated levels of IgM and IgM deficiency is bad for health as they seriously compromise the body’s immunity system, exposing it to further infections. For instance people with IgM deficiency are more prone to fungal infections, recurrent infections, sinusitis, pneumonia, atopic or chronic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, wheezing and diarrhoea; while elevated levels of IgM antibodies lead to gastrointestinal problems, autoimmune disorders like chronic arthritis, low platelets count, haemolytic anaemia, hypothyroidism and kidney disease, neutropenia, risk for some types of cancer like neuro endocrine carcinoma.

What Is Immunoglobulin M Test?

The Immunoglobulin M Test is used to measure the amount of IgM antibodies in the blood. The IgM test is also used to assess a person’s immune system and also to detect and monitor an excess or deficiency of different Immunoglobulin class. The IgA, IgG and IgM test are usually taken together to get a clearer picture of the person’s immunity function and it’s ability to deal with antigens.

The IgM test is advised if the patient shows the following symptoms;

• Recurrent infections of the respiratory tract like sinusitis, pneumonia
• Infection of the gastrointestinal tract
• IgM deficiency
• Elevated levels of IgM leading to lack of IgG levels

The Immunoglobulin M test is a simple blood test and does not require any special preparation. However, it is advisable to inform your doctor about the kind of medication you are taking, as they can affect the IgM test results.

The Immunoglobulin M test requires simple blood sample, which is drawn out by means of an injection from the veins of the forearm.