Epidermal Transglutaminase (eTG/TG3) Antibody, IgA by ELISA
Also known as: EPI TRANS
Use
This test is used to assess and monitor dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin condition associated with celiac disease. It helps in the diagnosis, assessment of disease progression, and differentiation from other immunobullous diseases with epithelial antibodies. An increased level of IgA epidermal transglutaminase (eTG/TG3) antibody in serum, determined by ELISA, is distinctly characteristic of dermatitis herpetiformis and provides support for diagnosis. Most patients with dermatitis herpetiformis have associated celiac disease, and hence, serologic testing for celiac disease is recommended in conjunction.
Special Instructions
Testing should be correlated with Direct Immunofluorescence, Tissue Biopsy for accurate assessment. Specimens from New York clients will be sent to a New York state-approved lab since this test is not New York state-approved. For clinical significance, this test should be accompanied by serum Celiac Disease Reflexive Cascade testing due to its correlation with dermatitis herpetiformis and celiac disease.
Limitations
The presence of normal levels of IgA eTG/TG3 antibodies does not rule out dermatitis herpetiformis. Patients on a gluten-restricted diet or those who are IgA deficient may have undetectable levels of IgA antibodies. Additionally, the test is not FDA cleared or approved, as FDA clearance is not required for tests performed in a CLIA-certified laboratory intended for clinical use. Correlation with other tests, like direct immunofluorescence, endomysial antibody testing, and tissue transglutaminase antibody testing, is crucial for comprehensive diagnostics.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 11502-2
Result Turnaround Time
7-21 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Collect in plain red or serum separator tube (SST). Transfer serum to an ARUP standard transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Store refrigerated unless shipping promptly (within 2 hours). Transport at ambient temperature to arrive within 7 days. If 7-14 days until received, store and ship refrigerated. If greater than 14 days, store and ship frozen.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolyzed or lipemic specimens. Plasma specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 week |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | Indefinitely |