Specific Blood Tests for Diagnosing Celiac Disease: Anti-tTG, Anti-Endomysial, and Anti-Gliadin Antibodies
Summary
- Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine, causing an adverse reaction to gluten ingestion.
- There are specific blood tests that are typically ordered to help diagnose celiac disease, including tests for antibodies such as anti-tissue transglutaminase, anti-endomysial, and anti-gliadin.
- Diagnosing celiac disease involves a combination of blood tests, Genetic Testing, and a biopsy of the small intestine.
Introduction
Celiac disease is a common autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine in response to the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is estimated that about 1 in 100 people worldwide have celiac disease, although many cases go undiagnosed. In the United States, celiac disease is becoming more recognized and diagnosed, leading to an increased demand for specific blood tests to help diagnose the condition.
Blood Tests for Celiac Disease
1. Anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies
One of the most commonly ordered blood tests to help diagnose celiac disease is the test for anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies. Transglutaminases are enzymes that are involved in various biological processes, and tTG is the specific type of transglutaminase that is targeted by the immune system in individuals with celiac disease. Elevated levels of anti-tTG antibodies in the blood indicate an immune response to gluten ingestion and are suggestive of celiac disease.
2. Anti-endomysial antibodies
Another blood test that is often ordered to help diagnose celiac disease is the test for anti-endomysial antibodies. Endomysium is a layer of connective tissue that surrounds muscle fibers, and anti-endomysial antibodies are produced in response to damage to the small intestine caused by gluten in individuals with celiac disease. Like anti-tTG antibodies, elevated levels of anti-endomysial antibodies in the blood are indicative of celiac disease.
3. Anti-gliadin antibodies
In addition to anti-tTG and anti-endomysial antibodies, blood tests for anti-gliadin antibodies may also be ordered to help diagnose celiac disease. Gliadin is a component of gluten, and anti-gliadin antibodies are produced in response to gluten ingestion in individuals with celiac disease. Elevated levels of anti-gliadin antibodies in the blood can further support a diagnosis of celiac disease.
4. Total IgA levels
It is important to note that celiac disease is associated with IgA deficiency in some individuals. Therefore, testing for total IgA levels in the blood is often recommended as part of the diagnostic workup for celiac disease. Low levels of IgA can affect the accuracy of antibody tests for celiac disease, as individuals with IgA deficiency may not produce detectable levels of anti-tTG, anti-endomysial, or anti-gliadin antibodies despite having the condition.
Diagnosing Celiac Disease
Diagnosing celiac disease involves a combination of blood tests, Genetic Testing, and a biopsy of the small intestine. The specific blood tests mentioned above are typically the first step in the diagnostic process, as they can provide valuable information about the presence of antibodies that target gluten-related proteins. If blood tests suggest celiac disease, Genetic Testing may be recommended to identify specific genetic markers associated with the condition, such as the HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 genes. Finally, a biopsy of the small intestine may be performed to confirm the diagnosis by examining the tissue for characteristic changes associated with celiac disease, such as villous atrophy and inflammation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, celiac disease is a common autoimmune disorder that affects the small intestine in response to gluten ingestion. Specific blood tests, including those for anti-tTG, anti-endomysial, and anti-gliadin antibodies, are typically ordered to help diagnose celiac disease in patients undergoing evaluation in a medical lab in the United States. Diagnosing celiac disease involves a comprehensive approach that may also include testing for total IgA levels, Genetic Testing, and a biopsy of the small intestine to confirm the diagnosis.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only, reflecting the personal opinions and insights of the author(s) on the topics. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. No physician-patient relationship is created by this web site or its use. No contributors to this web site make any representations, express or implied, with respect to the information provided herein or to its use. While we strive to share accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of the content. The blog may also include links to external websites and resources for the convenience of our readers. Please note that linking to other sites does not imply endorsement of their content, practices, or services by us. Readers should use their discretion and judgment while exploring any external links and resources mentioned on this blog.