Serum or plasma anti-endomysial antibody (qualitative) by immunofluorescence
This test measures the presence of antibodies against endomysium, a protein found in the lining of muscle fibers in the small intestine. It is commonly used to help diagnose celiac disease.
["This test helps detect celiac disease by checking for specific antibodies linked to gluten sensitivity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30865-0
- Short code
- MRA Celiac ves+SM ves
- Synonyms
- MRA Celiac ves+SM ves
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- 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
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test looks for anti-endomysial antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are produced when your immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of your small intestine due to gluten exposure. The presence of these antibodies can indicate an ongoing immune response associated with celiac disease.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, weight loss, fatigue, or abdominal pain, or if you have a family history of celiac disease. It can also be used as part of a screening process for unexplained gastrointestinal issues.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result suggests a high likelihood of celiac disease, prompting further testing such as an intestinal biopsy. However, a negative result does not definitively rule out celiac disease, so other diagnostic steps may still be needed.
What Should You Expect During the Test?
The test involves drawing blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to detect the presence of anti-endomysial antibodies. The process typically takes about 15 minutes and is usually painless.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Anti-endomysial antibodies are highly specific markers for celiac disease. When detected, they signal an immune-mediated damage to the small intestine, which can lead to malabsorption of nutrients. Early diagnosis through antibody testing, combined with a gluten-free diet and biopsy confirmation, is crucial for managing symptoms and preventing long-term complications.
Short name
Anti-Endomysial Antibody (qIF)
Frequently asked questions
How soon can I expect results?
What if my test results are positive?
Can I eat gluten before this test?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy