Epidermal Transglutaminase (eTG/TG3) Antibody, IgA by ELISA

Also known as: EPI TRANS

Clinical Use

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

Not provided.

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.

Test Details

Methodology

Immunoassay (ELISA)

Biomarkers

Epidermal Transglutaminase (eTG/TG3) IgA Antibodies

Protein

IgA epidermal transglutaminase antibody level

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

LOINC Codes

Result Codes

11502-2 - Laboratory report

Result Turnaround Time

7-21 days

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.