Endomysial Antibody, IgA

Endomysial antibodies or anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA) are special proteins made by the immune system when there is ongoing damage in the lining of the small intestine. In people with celiac disease, eating gluten (a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley) triggers the immune system to mistakenly attack the endomysium, a thin layer of tissue around muscle fibers. This reaction causes inflammation and damage in the small intestine. This leads to poor absorption of nutrients and symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, stomach pain, tiredness, weight loss, joint pain, or skin rash (called dermatitis herpetiformis). The Endomysial Antibody, IgA test is one of the most specific tests used in celiac disease evaluation.

Doctors may recommend the Endomysial Antibody, IgA test if there are symptoms of celiac disease, such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal bloating, unexplained weight loss, anemia, fatigue, or growth problems in children. This test is also used to confirm celiac disease in patients who have already tested positive for tTG IgA. In addition, the Endomysial Antibody, IgA test can help monitor adherence to a gluten-free diet, since antibody levels usually decrease when gluten is eliminated. The test is also valuable in detecting IgA-endomysial antibodies in conditions like celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis, a skin disorder linked to gluten sensitivity.

No special preparation is required for the Endomysial Antibody, IgA test. However, continue eating a diet that includes gluten for a few weeks before the test, unless the doctor advises otherwise. This is important because gluten-free diets may cause false negatives. Also, inform the doctor about all the medications and supplements currently being taken, as these may affect the test results.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Do not self-medicate and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly. 

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.