Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 5–7 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Early detection of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity before symptoms worsen
- Convenient screening without needing a doctor's referral or appointment
- Comprehensive antibody panel including tTG-IgA and deamidated gliadin peptides
- 93% sensitivity for accurate detection when following proper testing protocol
- Professional interpretation included with results for clear understanding
- Monitor treatment effectiveness if already following a gluten-free diet
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing unexplained digestive issues, fatigue, or skin problems
- People with family history of celiac disease or autoimmune conditions
- Those considering a gluten-free diet who want baseline testing first
- Individuals with unexplained anemia or nutrient deficiencies
- People monitoring adherence to gluten-free diet treatment
- Anyone seeking proactive health screening for gluten-related disorders
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online, no physician referral needed; schedule at your convenience
- Maintain normal gluten intake for several weeks before testing for accuracy
- Receive results in 5-7 days in secure online account
FAQ
Do I need to fast before this test? No fasting is required, but you must continue eating gluten-containing foods for accurate results.
How accurate is this blood test? The tTG-IgA test has 93% sensitivity and 96% specificity when performed correctly (Celiac Disease Foundation 2021).
Can I take this test if I'm already gluten-free? No, you need to consume gluten for several weeks before testing to avoid false negative results.
What if my results are positive? Positive results suggest gluten sensitivity or celiac disease and require follow-up with a gastroenterologist for confirmation.
Will this test diagnose celiac disease definitively? This blood test screens for celiac disease, but definitive diagnosis requires small intestine biopsy by a specialist.
How long should I eat gluten before testing? Continue eating gluten-containing foods for at least 2-4 weeks before testing for most accurate results.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This Gluten Blood Test detects specific antibodies that develop when your immune system reacts to gluten proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. The test measures tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTG-IgA), deamidated gliadin peptide antibodies, and total IgA levels to screen for celiac disease and gluten sensitivity (Mayo Clinic 2023). When you consume gluten, your body may mistakenly attack your small intestine lining, causing inflammation and damage that prevents proper nutrient absorption.
Who would benefit from this test?
Individuals experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or stomach pain should consider this test, especially when symptoms occur after eating wheat-based foods. People with unexplained anemia, fatigue, or skin conditions may have undiagnosed celiac disease (NIDDK 2025). Those with family history of celiac disease have higher risk and benefit from screening. Approximately 30% of people with celiac disease show no symptoms, making screening valuable for at-risk populations (MedlinePlus 2025).
When should I order a Gluten Blood Test?
Order this test when experiencing symptoms suggestive of gluten intolerance, such as persistent digestive issues, unexplained weight loss, or chronic fatigue. Testing is most accurate when performed before starting a gluten-free diet, as avoiding gluten can lead to false negative results. If you're already gluten-free, consult your healthcare provider about conducting a gluten challenge before testing. The test is also useful for monitoring treatment effectiveness in diagnosed patients.
How do I interpret the results?
Elevated tTG-IgA
- Suggests celiac disease
- Typical action: Gastroenterologist referral for biopsy
Elevated DGP antibodies
- Indicates gluten sensitivity
- Typical action: Consider gluten-free diet trial
Low total IgA
- May need IgG testing
- Typical action: Additional testing recommended
Normal levels
- No immune reaction detected
- Typical action: Continue normal diet, monitor symptoms
About 1% of the U.S. population has celiac disease, though many cases remain undiagnosed (Mayo Clinic 2023).
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.
Pre-test preparation
Maintain your regular gluten-containing diet for at least 2-4 weeks before testing to ensure accurate results. No fasting is required, but inform your healthcare provider about any autoimmune conditions or medications you're taking. Avoid starting a gluten-free diet before testing, as this can cause false negative results. If you're already gluten-free, discuss gluten challenge protocols with your doctor before testing.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening: Once, when symptomatic
- Monitoring treatment: Annually or as recommended
- Family history risk: Every 2–3 years
- Symptom recurrence: As needed with physician guidance
Why early detection matters
Early diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease prevent serious complications including malnutrition, osteoporosis, and increased risk of intestinal lymphoma. Untreated celiac disease can lead to permanent intestinal damage and nutrient deficiencies affecting overall health. Prompt adoption of a strict gluten-free diet allows intestinal healing and symptom resolution. Early detection also reduces long-term healthcare costs associated with managing complications (NIDDK 2025).
Related tests you may consider
Celiac Disease HLA DQ Association Blood Test — Helps rule out celiac disease in ambiguous cases; useful for family screening.
Vitamin Deficiency and Wellness Blood Test Panel — Screens for a selection of vitamins & minerals and wellness markers to catch early nutrient deficiencies.
Celiac Disease Comprehensive Antibody Profile Blood Test – screens for multiple celiac-specific antibodies to help detect celiac disease and differentiate it from wheat allergy or other gluten sensitivities.
