IgM

Immunoglobulins of class M

Responsible for initial reactions to new antigens, AB0 isoantibodies, rheumatoid factor. Indications for determination of igm:

• hypo- and hypergammaglobulinemia,
• immune deficiency
• recurrent infections,
• monoclonal gammapathies,
• acute infections,

Reduced igm values occur in increased loss of proteins (nephrotic syndrome, burns, enteropathy), in isolated antibody deficiency.

Elevated igm values: hypergammaglobulinemia, autoimmune diseases autoimmune diseases, acute infections.