Transglutaminase IgA Ab

When discussing the diagnosis of celiac disease, the analysis of tissue transglutaminase IgA Ab, known as the tTg-IgA test, represents a key method. This test, available as part of the services at the private laboratory IntroLab in Belgrade, is specifically designed to detect antibodies or immunoglobulins, proteins produced by the immune system. An increased presence of these antibodies in the blood may indicate celiac disease.

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the digestive system. This disorder is triggered when a person consumes food containing gluten, a protein present in grains like wheat, barley, and rye. When a person with celiac disease consumes gluten, their immune cells react to it and attack, which can damage the small intestine.

What are the symptoms of celiac disease?

A multitude of symptoms may indicate that someone is intolerant to gluten. However, some of the most common are:

• Diarrhea
• Bloating and abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)
• Weight loss
• Constipation
• Gas
• Iron-deficiency anemia
• Joint and bone pain
• Headaches and fatigue

Why is the tissue transglutaminase IgA antibody test performed?

The tissue transglutaminase IgA antibody test is the most sensitive and efficient method for testing celiac disease. It shows positive results in almost 98% of people with celiac disease who consume gluten. A doctor may recommend this test if the patient shows symptoms of celiac disease or if they have conditions like type 1 diabetes or thyroid disease, which increase the risk of developing celiac disease.

Interpreting the results of the tTG-IgA test

The results of the tTG-IgA test can help doctors diagnose celiac disease or monitor how people with this disease are managing their symptoms.

Reference values:

• tTG ANTIBODIES, IgA: <4.0 U/mL (negative)
• tTG ANTIBODIES, IgA: 4.0–10.0 U/mL (weakly positive)
• tTG ANTIBODIES, IgA: >10.0 U/mL (positive)

Risks and other notes

Although the tTg-IgA test does not carry significant risks, the patient may feel a slight prick or pain during the needle insertion. After the blood draw, there may be bleeding, bruising, or pain at the puncture site. It is important to note that this type of immunological analysis may not be accurate in children and people with low levels of antibodies, which can lead to false-negative results. In such cases, the doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests.

Related analyses

In addition to the analysis of tissue transglutaminase IgA Ab, patients have at their disposal in our laboratory the analysis of tissue transglutaminase IgG Ab, as well as additional tests used in the diagnosis of gluten intolerance.