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Method - Blood draw
Coeliac Disease & Gluten Sensitivity Antibody Test
This blood test is used to help assess for coeliac disease and possible gluten related immune reactions. Coeliac disease is an autoimmune condition where the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and sometimes oats, causing inflammation and damage to the lining of the small intestine.
One of the main markers assessed is tissue transglutaminase (tTG), an enzyme naturally involved in tissue repair. In people with coeliac disease, the immune system may mistakenly produce antibodies that attack this enzyme.
Higher levels of these antibodies may indicate:
- Coeliac disease
- Gluten sensitivity
- Immune activation related to gluten exposure
The test measures specific antibodies involved in this immune response, particularly IgA antibodies, which are commonly elevated in coeliac disease because they are produced in the lining of the small intestine where gluten related inflammation occurs.
The report may also assess anti-gliadin antibodies, which are antibodies produced in response to gliadin, a component of gluten found in wheat. Elevated anti-gliadin antibodies may be present in some people with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity and may occasionally be associated with symptoms outside the digestive system, including neurological symptoms in some individuals.
Symptoms that may be associated with coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity include:
- Bloating and digestive discomfort
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Iron deficiency
- Brain fog
- Skin issues
- Headaches
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Unexplained neurological symptoms
Analytes Included
- Gliadin IgA
- Gliadin IgG
- Transglutaminase IgA (tTG IgA)
These markers help assess whether the immune system may be reacting to gluten and whether further investigation for coeliac disease may be appropriate.