Anti-tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies, IgG

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies, IgG (anti-tTG IgG) are antibodies used to assess coeliac disease - an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten consumption that may lead to damage of the lining of the small intestine.

Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is an enzyme present in body tissues that plays an important role in protein modification. In coeliac disease, gluten consumption may trigger an abnormal immune response associated with the production of antibodies against tissue transglutaminase.

Measurement of anti-tTG IgG antibodies may contribute to the assessment of suspected coeliac disease, particularly in people with immunoglobulin A (IgA) deficiency, in whom IgA-based antibody tests may be less informative.

The result should be interpreted in conjunction with symptoms, medical history and other investigations recommended by the doctor. A positive result alone does not establish a diagnosis of coeliac disease and may require further investigation.

Indications

Testing for anti-tissue transglutaminase IgG antibodies may be recommended in the following cases:

• Suspected coeliac disease - in the presence of symptoms such as chronic diarrhoea, abdominal bloating, abdominal pain or discomfort, weight loss or signs of impaired nutrient absorption.
• IgA deficiency - in people with immunoglobulin A deficiency, measurement of anti-tTG IgG antibodies may be useful for assessing the likelihood of coeliac disease.
• Screening of people at increased risk - for example, close relatives of individuals diagnosed with coeliac disease or people with certain associated autoimmune conditions.
• Monitoring of coeliac disease - after diagnosis, antibody levels may be monitored over time together with clinical assessment to evaluate the response to a gluten-free diet.

Test method

Immunoassay - quantitative determination of IgG antibodies against tissue transglutaminase (anti-tTG IgG) in blood serum.

Procedure

A venous blood sample is collected, usually from a vein in the antecubital area.

Blood collection takes a few minutes and is performed by a healthcare professional. After the procedure, mild tenderness, a small bruise or minor bleeding may occur at the puncture site; these usually resolve spontaneously.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC549312/
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contentid=antitissue_transglutaminase_antibody&contenttypeid=167
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/test-ttg.html

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or exacerbation of a condition, it is essential to consult a medical professional for proper diagnostic tests and treatment. Only a qualified healthcare provider can make an accurate diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.