What is the purpose of this test?
The Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) Blood Test, IgG, is used to help diagnose celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder where eating gluten causes damage to the small intestine. This test measures the levels of IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase, an enzyme that is attacked by the immune system in people with celiac disease. High levels of these antibodies suggest that the immune system is reacting to gluten in the diet.
Doctors use the tTG IgG Blood Test for people who have symptoms of celiac disease, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss, or for those who have a family history of the disease. This test is especially helpful for individuals who may have an IgA deficiency, which can make other types of celiac disease tests less accurate. By diagnosing celiac disease, doctors can help patients manage their condition through a gluten-free diet, leading to improved health and symptom relief.
Who should get this test?
The Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) Blood Test, IgG, should be ordered by individuals who need to assess their immune response to gluten and diagnose celiac disease. Here are the groups of people who would benefit from this test:
- People with symptoms of celiac disease: Such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, or weight loss.
- Individuals with a family history of celiac disease: To check if they also have the condition.
- Patients with autoimmune diseases: Celiac disease is associated with other autoimmune conditions like type 1 diabetes or autoimmune thyroid disease.
- People with unexplained nutritional deficiencies: Especially deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, or folate, which can be caused by malabsorption due to celiac disease.
- Individuals with dermatitis herpetiformis: A skin condition associated with celiac disease.
- Patients with an IgA deficiency: As alternative tests may be less accurate in detecting celiac disease in these cases.
These individuals can benefit from a Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) Blood Test, IgG, to help diagnose celiac disease and guide them towards a gluten-free diet for management and treatment.
When should I order this test?
A Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) Blood Test, IgG, should be ordered when individuals show symptoms that suggest a potential gluten-related disorder, such as celiac disease. Here are some symptoms that may prompt this test:
- Chronic diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Bloating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Skin rash
If you experience these symptoms, especially if they are chronic or recurring, discussing them with your doctor can help determine if a Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) Blood Test, IgG, is appropriate to assess for celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
LC Sample ReportQD Sample Report
Test Code(s):
164988, 11070
Also Known As:
Transglutaminase; Tissue Antibody IgG; tTG IgG;
Preparation:
No special preparation is required.
Test Results:
5-7 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
