What it means
One of the five classes of antibodyAN-tih-bod-eeA Y-shaped protein made by the immune system that sticks to one specific germ or foreign substance and marks it for destruction.anti- againstbody Full entry (immunoglobulin). It is the largest and appears early in an infection, then falls as IgGeye-jee-JEE (said as letters)Immunoglobulin G: the most common type of antibody in the blood, which gives long-lasting protection against germs.Full entry takes over for long-term protection. A positive IgM test for a germ therefore usually points to a recent or current infection, while IgG points to a past infection or vaccination. IgM does not cross the placenta, so IgM found in a newborn was made by the baby itself.
At a glance
| Also written | immunoglobulin M |
|---|
Related terms
immune system
The body's defense system of cells, tissues and organs that fights germs and other foreign substances.
antibody
A Y-shaped protein made by the immune system that sticks to one specific germ or foreign substance and marks it for destruction.
immunoglobulin
An antibody: a protein made by B cells that recognizes and helps destroy a specific germ or foreign substance.
IgG
Immunoglobulin G: the most common type of antibody in the blood, which gives long-lasting protection against germs.