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Tissue transglutaminase (TG) IgA antibody in serum (IgA anti-tTG)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures antibodies against tissue transglutaminase, a protein linked to celiac disease. It helps diagnose or monitor gluten sensitivity in the gut.

Quick summary

["This blood test checks for celiac disease-related antibodies that may indicate gluten intolerance."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49443-5
Short code
T gondii DNA # Ur NAA+probe
Synonyms
T gondii DNA # Ur NAA+probe
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent diarrhea, stomach pain, weight loss, or fatigue, especially after being diagnosed with possible celiac disease. It may also be used to confirm a diagnosis or check for recurrence after treatment. Sometimes, it’s ordered alongside other tests like endoscopy or genetic screening.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or supplements that could affect results. If you’re on long-term gluten-free diet, your doctor may want to test again after reintroducing gluten to monitor response.

How the Test Works

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where antibodies against tissue transglutaminase are detected using an immunoassay method. This test measures the presence and level of these antibodies in your serum.

What the Results Mean

Positive results suggest a higher likelihood of celiac disease, but they aren’t definitive on their own. Your doctor will consider symptoms, other test results, and possibly a biopsy of your small intestine to confirm the diagnosis. Results may also be used to guide treatment decisions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgA Anti-Tissue Transglutaminase (IgA tTG) Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Symptoms of Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including digestive issues like chronic diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, bloating, or unexplained weight loss. Non-digestive symptoms may include fatigue, anemia, nutrient deficiencies, skin rashes (dermatitis herpetiformis), or even long-term complications like osteoporosis or neurological problems. Many people with celiac disease have no obvious symptoms but may still experience long-term health effects if gluten is not avoided.
How Does a Gluten-Free Diet Help?
A gluten-free diet can significantly improve symptoms and reduce complications by removing gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This allows your small intestine to heal, which may restore normal digestion and nutrient absorption. Over time, symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, and fatigue often improve, and blood test results may normalize.
Can This Test Be Used to Monitor Treatment?
Yes, this test can help monitor whether your celiac disease is in remission. After starting a gluten-free diet, your doctor may retest you to check if antibody levels decrease, which would suggest your gut is healing. However, results alone aren’t enough to confirm remission; your doctor may also review symptoms and possibly perform an endoscopy or other tests.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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