Synonyms: ANTI-TGA (anti-tissue transglutaminase)
Related tests: Anti-gliadin antibodies, IgG, IgA, anti-endomysial antibodies, HLA genetic test for coeliac disease
Clinical significance
Coeliac disease is an enteropathy that mainly affects the proximal small intestine, causing malabsorption. It is caused by intolerance to gluten, found in wheat and other cereals. Anti-transglutaminase antibodies are IgA/IgG immunoglobulins and, together with anti-endomysial antibodies, are the most specific serological marker for diagnosing coeliac disease. They are directed against a tissue protein (transglutaminase) expressed by the small intestine that interacts with gliadin and plays a key role in the development of coeliac disease.
Although a definite diagnosis of coeliac disease can only be made histologically, the introduction of anti-transglutaminase antibodies into clinical practice has made it possible to diagnose many forms of coeliac disease with few or no symptoms.
Clinical indications
Coeliac disease
Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.
Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed.
Notes
During treatment (a gluten-free diet) the test tends to become negative and is therefore useful for monitoring the disease. In congenital IgA deficiency and in very young children the test may be negative.