Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody, IgA, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC92814Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID TTGACPT Code 86364

Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody, IgA, Serum

Clinical Use

Use

The Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody, IgA, Serum test is primarily used to evaluate patients suspected of having celiac disease. It is particularly useful for those with compatible clinical symptoms as well as those with atypical symptoms. Individuals with a family history of celiac disease or those who are positive for HLA DQ2 and/or DQ8 are also candidates for this test. Additionally, it is used for screening for dermatitis herpetiformis in conjunction with the endomysial antibody test. This test aids in monitoring the response to a gluten-free diet in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis and celiac disease.

Special Instructions

For patients suspected of celiac disease, cascade testing is recommended to ensure algorithmic progression. Algoriths available include comprehensive testing with HLA DQ, serology testing excluding HLA DQ, and gluten-free cascade particularly for those adhering to a gluten-free diet. For the testing protocol, serum should be collected in a serum gel or red top tube, centrifuged, and then aliquoted into a plastic vial.

Limitations

While this test is valuable, it should not be solely relied upon to establish a diagnosis of celiac disease. It identifies patients with a higher probability of having the disease, recommending a small intestinal biopsy for confirmation. Negative results may occur in individuals on a gluten-free diet. Further tests may be needed if the individual is IgA deficient or if clinical doubts persist.

Test Details

New York Approved