Anti-Endomysial Antibody (AEA)

Department of Immunology

Notes

• This assay is automatically added by the lab when IgA Tissue transglutaminase (TTG) is positive. It is not performed independently, so TTG should be the requested test. In patients with IgA deficiency, IgG anti-endomysial antibody will be performed instead (referred to Southmead Hospital).
• Positive IgA anti-endomysial antibodies (AEA) are more specific for coeliac disease than TTG. They are also present in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis. Please note, diagnostic coeliac serology should be undertaken while the patient is on a gluten containing diet.

Sample Requirements

(No patient preparation or special handling required).

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml Serum Sample

Turnaround Times

14 days

Time Limit for Add-ons

Not applicable as only indicated after a positive TTG.

Reference Range

Normal = Negative