This test measures the level of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Antibodies in the blood. IgG are the smallest and most common type of antibody making up 75-80% of all antibodies in the body. IgG antibodies are found in all body fluids and play a key role in fighting infections from bacteria and viruses. High IgG levels may indicate that a person has a chronic infection such as HIV or Hepatitis. They can also be high due to conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, some types of cancer and autoimmune disorders. Low IgG levels can be found in people with kidney damage, leukemia and conditions which weaken the immune system leaving them more susceptible to infections. IgG test results cannot indicate the specific type or source of an infection. More specific testing may be needed as a follow up to abnormal results. An IgG test may be ordered when someone is suffering from frequent infections to see if they have a condition which is impairing their immune system.
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