What are transglutaminase antibodies, IgA?
Transglutaminase antibodies of the IgA type (tTG-IgA) are a specific type of antibody used as a marker in the suspicion of celiac disease, an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system reacts abnormally to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley.
The intestinal mucosa is damaged in celiac disease because the immune system mistakenly identifies the enzyme tissue transglutaminase (tTG), which is naturally found in the small intestine, as a threat. When this happens, an inflammatory reaction occurs in which tissue transglutaminase is attacked and the formation of transglutaminase antibodies (IgA) increases as a result. The damage that occurs to the intestinal villi impairs nutrient absorption and can lead to several different symptoms, including stomach problems, weight loss, fatigue, nutritional deficiencies and other systemic problems.
A blood test for tTG-IgA is the test most often used to detect celiac disease. The analysis of tTG-IgA has a high sensitivity and specificity, which means that it is very reliable in diagnosing the disease. However, to ensure an accurate test result, it is important that you still eat gluten when taking the test, since a gluten-free diet can lead to false negative results.
What does an elevated value of IgA transglutaminase antibodies mean?
A high value of IgA transglutaminase antibodies indicates a high probability of celiac disease. However, since there are other factors that can affect the test result, it is important to interpret the test result together with other clinical findings, and possibly perform a biopsy of the intestine to confirm the diagnosis of celiac disease.
When might it be useful to test for transglutaminase antibodies?
If celiac disease is suspected, it may be relevant to perform a blood test that measures IgA antibodies, especially if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Gastrointestinal problems: Gas, pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating and nausea.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Anemia, unexplained weight loss, osteoporosis.
- Skin problems: Dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy skin disease linked to celiac disease).
- Neurological symptoms: Tingling, numbness, balance problems.
- Fatigue & depression: Chronic fatigue, brain fog or depression.
It is important to consult a doctor for further investigation in case of elevated levels of transglutaminase antibodies.