Gliadin antibodies - serum

Last updated: Monday, 06, August, 2007

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Item Process
Specimen

 5 mL blood in plain tube.

Method

Immunoassay for IgG and IgA antibodies to gliadin.

Application

Of limited application in diagnosis of coeliac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis.

Follow up of dietary restriction and challenge.

Endomysial antibodies/ transglutaminase antibodies are more specific for the diagnosis of coeliac disease.

Interpretation

A positive result for either IgG or IgA antibodies to gliadin is found in up to 10% of the normal population and so the test is of limited use in diagnosis of coeliac disease and has been superseded by endomysial/transglutaminase antibodies.

See also endomysial antibodies - serum.

Reference

Wong R et al. Pathology 2003; 35: 285-304.