Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody - IgA

The tissue transglutaminase antibody - IgA test measures self-generated antibodies present in the blood which are produced by the body in response to autoimmune disorders such as celiac disease and other gluten-sensitive conditions. In celiac disease, an inappropriate immune response is generated to counter the presence of gluten. Gluten is a protein which is found in wheat, rye, and barley. 

Due to the immune response produced by the body, there is inflammation of the small intestine which leads to damage and destruction of the villi that lines the walls of the intestine. Villi are finger-like structures present in the small intestine. These are responsible for increasing the surface area of the intestine and help in digestion of food. They allow various nutrients, vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and fluids to be absorbed into the body. 

If a person suffering from celiac disease get exposed to gluten content, the body in response starts producing antibodies. These antibodies cause inflammation which damages the villi. This damage will further impact the body’s ability to absorb food. In such conditions, the body begins to develop signs and symptoms which are associated with malnutrition and malabsorption.