(ACA) An antibody that acts against components in the cell membranes (membranes that holds a cell together as well as surrounding some internal cell structures). Looked for in the blood (we ask for a serum anticardiolipin as a possible immune cause of recurrent miscarriages. Intriguingly, the membrane that contains most cardiolipin is the membrane surrounding the mitochondrion (malfunction of which is implicated in causing miscarriage, although how (or if) the antibody might get to the mitochondria is not known.

A test done to investigate recurrent miscarriages.

Synonym: antinuclear factor. An antibody directed at phosphate-containing fatty components of cell membranes, such as cardiolipin (see anticardiolipin antibody). Low levels are probably common and harmless; in higher levels they can cause disease, particularly during pregnancy, including thrombosis and miscarriage.

An antibody first noted in the disease systemic lupus erythematosus or 'lupus', that has the ability to stop blood clotting. A cause of recurrent miscarriages. Closely related to a family of anti-phospholipid antibodies, especially anticardiolipin antibody. Also called the lupus inhibitor.