Aish Health

Lab test

Immunoglobulin IgM

Also known as: Immunoglobulin M (IgM) blood test, IgM serum, IgM Total antibody

Key Characteristics and Functions First Responder: IgM is the initial antibody produced by newborns and the first to appear upon exposure to a new antigen, appearing within 5–10 days. Structure: It exists as a pentamer…

Sample
Serum
Preparation
No fasting needed
Report in
72 hours
Collection
At your home

About this test

Key Characteristics and Functions

  • First Responder: IgM is the initial antibody produced by newborns and the first to appear upon exposure to a new antigen, appearing within 5–10 days.
  • Structure: It exists as a pentamer (roughly 900-1000 kDa) composed of five monomeric units held together by disulfide bonds and a joining (J) chain. It can also exist as a hexamer.
  • Complement Activation: IgM is more efficient than IgG at initiating the classical complement pathway.
  • Location: Due to its large size, it remains mostly in the vascular system (blood and lymph).
  • "Natural Antibody": It can bind to specific antigens without prior immunization, offering immediate protection.

Clinical Significance

  • Recent Infection: Elevated IgM levels strongly indicate recent infection or antigen exposure.
  • Diagnostic Tool: Testing IgM levels helps identify acute infections (vs. IgG, which indicates past exposure or immunity).
  • High/Low Levels: Elevated IgM may suggest infection, autoimmune diseases, or certain blood cancers. Low levels might indicate immunodeficiency, nutritional issues, or specific treatments.

Preparation

  • No fasting is needed for this test. You can book any available slot.
  • Keep your doctor’s prescription or test request handy if you have one, and take regular medicines as your doctor has advised.
  • Tell the sample collector if you take blood thinners, and wear a sleeve that rolls above the elbow.

How home sample collection works

  1. 1

    Choose your tests

    Add single tests or a package to the cart and check fasting needs.

  2. 2

    Pick a collection slot

    Half-hour slots from 30 minutes ahead, up to 10 days out. Pay online.

  3. 3

    A sample collector visits

    They confirm the visit with a one-time code, then take the sample.

  4. 4

    Report in your account

    The lab uploads the report and you are notified to download it.

Where we collect samples at home

Lab tests with home sample collection reach 70 Hyderabad pin codes today, across these areas:

Coverage differs street to street and grows as professionals join. Check your pin code to see what reaches your address.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Immunoglobulin IgM cost in Hyderabad?

Immunoglobulin IgM costs ₹549 on Aish Health in Hyderabad, down from ₹699. There is no separate home collection fee; any GST or busy-hour charge is shown before you pay.

Do I need to fast before Immunoglobulin IgM?

No, fasting is not needed for this test, so you can book any available slot.

When will I get the Immunoglobulin IgM report?

The expected report time is 72 hours. The partner lab uploads the report as a PDF to your order and you are notified to download it.

What sample is collected for Immunoglobulin IgM?

Serum sample is collected at your home by a sample collector.

Can I cancel a lab test booking?

Yes. Cancel before a sample collector accepts or more than 1 hour before the slot for a full refund. Within 1 hour of the slot there is no refund, and once the sample collector is on the way the booking can no longer be cancelled.

Can I book tests for a family member?

Yes. Add them as a family member in your account and choose them as the patient when booking, so the report is filed under their name.

Can I pay cash when the sample is collected?

No. Lab tests booked on the website or app are paid online when you book, by card, UPI or your Aish Health wallet.

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