What is Immunoglobulin M?
Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is not as predominant as Immunoglobulin A (IgA) or Immunoglobulin G (IgG), but it is a larger antibody in size. IgM is the first antibody to respond to when an antigen or foreign substance is detected in the body. When IgM responds to the antigen the response causes increased production of IgG. IgM, IgA and IgG all work together when an effective immune system response occurs.
If an immune response problem or autoimmune disease is possible, IgM, IgG and IgA are typically tested at the same time. Immunodeficiencies can result from genetics, infection, disease, excessive skin burns and malnutrition.
Normal Value Range
- Negative Pregnancy Adult: 50 to 300 mg/dL or 0.50 to 3.0 g/L
- Pregnancy Trimester One: 1 to 309 mg/dL or 0.01 to 3.09 g/L
- Pregnancy Trimester Two: 2 to 290 mg/dL or 0.02 to 2.90 g/L
- Pregnancy Trimester Three: 0 to 361 mg/dL or 0 to 3.61 g/L