Endomysial Antibodies, IgG, Serum
Use
The test is primarily used for the analysis of IgG-endomysial antibodies to diagnose dermatitis herpetiformis and celiac disease. Additionally, it serves as a tool to monitor adherence to a gluten-free diet in patients diagnosed with these conditions. The presence of circulating IgG endomysial antibodies is indicative of gluten-sensitive enteropathy, commonly found in celiac disease patients who are not adhering to a gluten-free diet. This test's high specificity for celiac disease can often eliminate the need for multiple small bowel biopsies, which is particularly beneficial for pediatric evaluations.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
A negative IgG-endomysial antibody result does not definitively exclude dermatitis herpetiformis or celiac disease, especially in mild cases of gluten-sensitive enteropathy. The test may return indeterminate results due to factors like strong smooth muscle staining or weak EMA staining. In such instances, further assessment with additional immunoglobulin testing is recommended. While highly specific, the test may not capture all nuances and should be interpreted within the larger clinical context.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA))
Biomarkers
IgG Endomysial Antibody
Antibody
LOINC Codes
- 39554-1 - Endomysium IgG Ser Ql
- 39554-1 - Endomysium IgG Ser Ql
Result Turnaround Time
2-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 30 days |
