What is an IgM Anti-Cardiolipin blood test?

[123mif]

I have had my IgM Anti-Cardiolipin tested 3 times in the past 6 months. Results have been, 22, 35.5 and last week was 53. I know the normal range is between 0-10 but what exactly does IgM Anti-Cardiolipin mean? I am under a Haematologist at Manchester who has been really good so far but I am still baffled when he explains things to me. Is this the blood test that confirms APS or do I need to have other positive blood tests to have APS. Can anyone shed any light please. Many thanks.

[Manofmendip]

Hello. I agree with my colleague that three positive tests indicates that you have Hughes Syndrome/APS and I agree with the advice that she has given you.

Let us know how you get on.

Dave

[123mif]

Thank you for all your responses, really helpful. Last September I had a suspected TIA, since then I have had extreme fatigue (which has gradually improved and become manageable) and bad memory, concentration, lack of focus and understanding of situations hence why my appointments have been so difficult to understand. Two weeks ago I had the same TIA symptoms again so I am now taking Heparin plus Clopidogral (which I have been taking since Sept). The consultant I saw is going to refer me to see a Rheumatologist at Manchester Royal Infirmary which will be in next few months. We have talked about Hughes Syndrome but nothing definite has come from it, I think he is a bit perplexed by me as there other members in my family that have similar symptoms. I was told my mother had a condition called sticky blood, she died 12 years ago from a blood clot on her lung, the consultant said that APS isn't hereditary. I am seeing him again this week. Not really sure what to do next, whether I should be pushing for a diagnosis. Thanks.