Understanding Lab Tests for Pouchitis
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Pouchitis is inflammation of the ileal pouch, an artificial rectum surgically created for patients with ulcerative colitis who have undergone colectomy. While pouchitis is typically diagnosed through clinical symptoms and endoscopic examination, blood testing plays an important supportive role in risk assessment and monitoring.
Recommended Test
Saccharomyces cerevisiae Antibodies (ASCA) (IgG)
This test measures antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast. Higher levels of ASCA (IgG) antibodies have been associated with an increased risk of developing pouchitis in patients with ileal pouches. This test can help identify patients who may benefit from closer monitoring or preventive measures.
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The Role of Blood Testing in Pouchitis
There is no single blood test that directly diagnoses pouchitis itself. However, laboratory testing is fundamental for assessing risk factors, monitoring inflammatory markers, and understanding the body's immune response in patients with ileal pouches. This information helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about prevention and treatment strategies.
Understanding Your Results
ASCA testing provides valuable information about immune system patterns that may predispose patients to pouchitis. However, the presence of these antibodies does not guarantee that pouchitis will develop, nor does their absence rule out the possibility. These results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic findings.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment, especially if you have undergone colectomy surgery and are experiencing symptoms of pouchitis.
