Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system reacts to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. This reaction can cause inflammation in the small intestine and may lead to a range of symptoms. The antibodies measured in this panel are among the most commonly used markers for investigating celiac disease, as they tend to be elevated when the immune system is actively responding to gluten.

This test may be relevant for:

• People who experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea, or abdominal discomfort after eating gluten-containing foods
• Those with a family history of celiac disease
• Anyone with unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, iron deficiency, or skin rashes that could be associated with celiac disease
• People who want to check for celiac-related antibodies before making dietary changes

This panel includes two antibody markers:

• Anti-TTG (Anti-Tissue Transglutaminase): an antibody directed against the enzyme tissue transglutaminase. Elevated levels are commonly associated with celiac disease.
• Endomysium IgA: an antibody directed against the endomysium, a connective tissue layer. It is considered a highly specific marker for celiac disease.

Elevated Anti-TTG and/or Endomysium IgA may suggest an active immune response to gluten, which can be associated with celiac disease. However, antibody levels can be influenced by several factors, including the amount of gluten in your diet at the time of testing. If you have already reduced or eliminated gluten from your diet, antibody levels may be lower and the test may not accurately reflect your status.

These markers are screening tools. A positive result typically prompts further investigation, which may include additional blood work or a referral to a gastroenterologist.

This test uses a blood sample collected at a certified sample point (afnamepunt). With over 750 partner locations across the Netherlands, you can choose a location that suits you. A trained phlebotomist performs the blood draw, and results are typically available within a few working days.

This test may be useful when:

• You experience digestive symptoms that could be related to gluten intake
• You have non-digestive symptoms such as persistent fatigue, unexplained iron deficiency, or skin changes that may be associated with celiac disease
• There is celiac disease in your family and you want to check your antibody levels
• You want to investigate before making significant dietary changes

Each marker is shown with your value and the reference range. Negative results (within the normal range) suggest that no elevated antibody response to gluten was detected at the time of testing. Positive results (above the reference range) may indicate an active immune response that could be associated with celiac disease.

It is worth noting that a small percentage of people with celiac disease may have IgA deficiency, which can affect the accuracy of these tests. Your report includes explanations, and we recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider for further evaluation if needed.

It is important to continue eating gluten-containing foods for at least 6 weeks before the test. If you have already removed gluten from your diet, the antibodies may have decreased and the test may not accurately reflect your status. Discuss with a healthcare provider before reintroducing gluten if you have concerns.

Your results are typically available within a few working days. The report includes your values with reference ranges and explanations. If antibody levels are elevated, this is highlighted in your report. We recommend discussing the results with a healthcare provider, who can advise on whether further investigation, such as referral to a specialist, may be appropriate.