Anti-endomysial antibody (serum/plasma) – Immunoassay
This test measures antibodies against endomysium, a protein found in the muscle fibers of the small intestine. It helps diagnose certain types of celiac disease.
["This test may be used to confirm suspected celiac disease."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13092-2
- Short code
- Endomysium Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Endomysium Ab Ser-aCnc
- 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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue, and they suspect celiac disease. It can also be part of a routine screening for people with a family history of the condition or certain autoimmune diseases.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result strongly suggests celiac disease, as these antibodies are specific to the tissue affected in this condition. However, a positive test alone doesn’t confirm the diagnosis—additional testing, like a biopsy of the small intestine, is usually needed.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means your body does not have detectable anti-endomysial antibodies. This could mean you don’t have celiac disease, but it’s not definitive. Other conditions or factors may also cause a negative result, so further evaluation may still be needed.
How is this test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where antibodies against endomysium are measured using an immunoassay method. This test is typically done on serum or plasma.
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’s lining, which occurs when gluten is consumed. Early detection through this test can help manage symptoms and prevent long-term complications like nutrient deficiencies or increased risk of other autoimmune diseases.
Short name
Anti-endomysial antibody (AEA)
Frequently asked questions
What are the common symptoms of celiac disease?
How is celiac disease diagnosed?
Can this test be done at home?
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