Understanding Lab Tests for Celiac Disease
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where consuming gluten triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine lining. Unlike many conditions, celiac disease can be diagnosed through specific blood tests that detect antibodies and genetic markers associated with the condition.
Top Recommended Test
Anti-tTG IgA (Tissue Transglutaminase IgA)
This is the primary diagnostic test for celiac disease. The IgA class of tissue transglutaminase antibodies is most commonly associated with celiac disease, and high levels of this biomarker strongly suggest the presence of the condition.
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Other Relevant Diagnostic Tests
The most reliable way to diagnose celiac disease is through blood tests that measure specific antibodies produced when the immune system reacts to gluten proteins. These tests are highly accurate for detecting active celiac disease.
Gliadin (Deamidated Peptide) Antibody (IgG, IgA)
This test detects antibodies against deamidated gliadin peptides, which are often elevated in individuals with celiac disease. Testing for both IgG and IgA antibodies helps confirm diagnosis and is particularly important for patients with selective IgA deficiency.
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Celiac Disease Comprehensive Panel, Infant
This comprehensive panel includes multiple celiac-specific antibody tests, including deamidated gliadin antibodies and tissue transglutaminase antibodies, providing a complete assessment for celiac disease diagnosis.
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Genetic Testing for Celiac Disease Risk
Genetic testing can identify individuals who carry genes associated with celiac disease risk. While having these genes doesn't guarantee developing celiac disease, their absence can effectively rule out the condition.
HLA-A, B, C, DRB1 and DQ High Resolution
This comprehensive genetic test identifies HLA-DQ2 and HLA-DQ8 markers, which are present in over 90% of individuals with celiac disease. These markers help identify individuals who may be at risk of developing the condition.
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HLA DRB1,DQB1 Low Resolution
Variations in HLA-DQB1 are associated with a higher risk of celiac disease and may cause the immune system to damage the small intestine lining when gluten is consumed.
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Monitoring Nutritional Complications
Celiac disease often causes malabsorption of nutrients due to intestinal damage. Blood tests can monitor vitamin and mineral levels to assess nutritional status and guide supplementation therapy.
Vitamin A (Retinol)
Celiac disease can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including Vitamin A, potentially leading to lower levels of retinol that require monitoring and supplementation.
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Vitamin K
People with celiac disease can have difficulty absorbing Vitamin K due to intestinal damage, which can lead to deficiencies affecting blood clotting and bone health.
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Alkaline Phosphatase, Serum
Celiac disease can cause deficiency in alkaline phosphatase due to malabsorption of nutrients necessary for enzyme production, making this test useful for monitoring overall nutritional status.
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Additional Monitoring Tests
Additional blood tests may be recommended to assess immune function and monitor for complications or related conditions in individuals with celiac disease.
Immunoglobulins Panel, Serum
Since celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, people with celiac disease may have elevated levels of certain IgA antibodies, making this panel useful for comprehensive immune assessment.
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IgA
People with celiac disease often have elevated IgA antibody levels to tissue transglutaminase, which may cause damage to the small intestine when gluten-containing foods are consumed.
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Important Considerations
For accurate celiac disease testing, it's important to continue eating gluten-containing foods before testing, as a gluten-free diet can lead to false-negative results. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of celiac disease.
