Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody, IgG

The Tissue Transglutaminase IgG Test is a blood test that helps diagnose celiac disease and evaluate the effectiveness of a gluten-free diet. Celiac disease manifests as damage to the small intestine, where the mucosa becomes flattened, ultimately causing malabsorption and the depletion of vital nutrients. Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by an inappropriate immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. This diagnostic test detects the IgG type of tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibody, which is used to diagnose Celiac disease. This test may be used as an alternative test in people who have a deficiency of IgA. The deficiency of IgA is likely the primary factor contributing to false negative serological results for tTG IgA in celiac patients confirmed by biopsy.  As such, this test is advised for people who experience symptoms of celiac disease like chronic diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, anemia, greasy, foul-smelling stools, bloody stools, vomiting, and weight loss; growth delays in children; or if you have a close relative who has celiac disease. This test also helps monitor your progress when you are being treated for celiac disease.