Anti-endomysial antibody (qualitative) - Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies against endomysium, a protein found in the muscle fibers of the stomach lining. It is used primarily to help diagnose certain types of autoimmune conditions affecting digestion.
["This test helps identify possible celiac disease by detecting specific antibodies linked to gut inflammation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110958-6
- Short code
- Endomysium Ab Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- Endomysium Ab Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent stomach pain, diarrhea, weight loss, or fatigue that don’t improve with usual treatments. It’s also used when other tests or conditions suggest celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the small intestine.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result strongly suggests celiac disease, meaning your immune system is reacting abnormally to gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This reaction can damage the small intestine, leading to digestive issues and other health problems.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means this test did not detect anti-endomysial antibodies in your serum. While this doesn’t rule out celiac disease completely, it reduces the likelihood of this specific diagnosis. You may still need further testing or follow-up with your doctor.
What Should I Expect During the Test?
The test involves drawing a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically ready within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s process.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Anti-endomysial antibodies are highly specific markers for celiac disease. When present, they indicate damage to the small intestine due to gluten exposure. Early diagnosis is crucial because untreated celiac disease can lead to malnutrition, osteoporosis, or other long-term health issues. While this test helps confirm celiac disease, it’s often used alongside other tests (like tissue transglutaminase antibodies or intestinal biopsy) for a complete diagnosis.
Short name
Anti-Endomysial Antibody (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my test results?
Can I eat gluten before the test?
What if my test results are inconclusive?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy