Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No fasting required (stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection)
- Turnaround: 4-8 days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
This test measures GAD-65 Autoantibody (also known as Glutamic Acid Antibody) in your blood. GAD autoantibodies are diabetes-related antibodies that target insulin-producing pancreatic cells.
The presence of GAD-65 Autoantibody can help evaluate whether an autoimmune process affecting insulin-producing pancreatic cells is present. This single biomarker test does not measure insulin, glucose, or any other analyte, and it does not by itself provide a complete evaluation of pancreatic or metabolic function.
Benefits
- Detects GAD-65 Autoantibody, a marker linked to autoimmune diabetes
- Requires only a blood sample
- No fasting required before testing
- Convenient local lab visit for specimen collection
- Results available online once processing is complete
Who Is This Test For?
- People experiencing symptoms that may relate to type 1 diabetes
- Those noticing dry mouth or constant thirst
- Those experiencing frequent urination
- Individuals dealing with constant hunger or fatigue
- People whose healthcare provider recommends autoantibody testing
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects GAD-65 Autoantibody, an autoantibody that targets insulin-producing pancreatic cells. Your healthcare provider may use this result, along with your symptoms and history, to help evaluate autoimmune activity related to type 1 diabetes and the potential need for insulin treatment. This test alone does not diagnose type 1 diabetes.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be appropriate for people experiencing symptoms associated with type 1 diabetes, such as dry mouth, frequent urination, constant hunger, or fatigue. It may also be relevant for those whose healthcare provider wants to evaluate autoimmune activity affecting the pancreas.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider ordering this test if you are experiencing symptoms such as dry mouth, frequent urination, constant hunger, or fatigue. This test can be used as part of evaluating these symptoms, but it does not replace a full medical evaluation.
4. What does this test measure?
This test measures one biomarker: GAD-65 Autoantibody, in a blood specimen. GAD-65 Autoantibody is an autoantibody, distinct from insulin or glucose, and this test does not report those values. No additional analytes are included with this test.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. You should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to your specimen collection.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 4 to 8 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your GAD-65 Autoantibody result depends on your individual symptoms, medical history, and other clinical factors. A positive result reflects the presence of this specific autoantibody and should be considered alongside your overall clinical picture, not as a standalone conclusion. A negative result does not rule out type 1 diabetes or related autoimmune activity. Discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider for full interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your GAD-65 Autoantibody result is abnormal, review it with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help interpret the result in the context of your symptoms and history and determine whether additional evaluation is appropriate. Do not start, stop, or change any medication based on this result alone.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no set testing schedule for this test. Talk with your healthcare provider about whether and when retesting may be appropriate for your situation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required before this test. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to your specimen collection.
