This test is primarily used to help diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn’s disease, and distinguish between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
The Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae IgG (ASCA) Antibodies test measures the level of antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast found in the digestive system. High levels of ASCA are often associated with certain autoimmune conditions, particularly inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease.
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How our test process works!
Overview:
- The test detects antibodies in the blood that target Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a yeast found in the intestinal tract.
- ASCA antibodies are typically elevated in people with Crohn's disease and may be used as a marker to help differentiate between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (another form of IBD).
Risk Assessment:
- Indications for testing:
- Suspected IBD, especially Crohn's disease.
- Unclear diagnosis of gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Monitoring disease activity in people diagnosed with Crohn's disease.
- Risks:
- This is a blood test, so there may be minor risks associated with drawing blood, such as bruising, lightheadedness, or infection at the needle site.
Normal Range:
- There is no universal normal range as the levels of ASCA IgG can vary depending on the laboratory. Generally, a low or undetectable level is considered normal, but exact reference ranges should be provided by the testing laboratory.
Interpretation:
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Positive Result: High levels of ASCA IgG antibodies are often found in people with Crohn's disease. However, it’s not specific to Crohn’s and may also appear in other conditions or in healthy individuals.
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Negative Result: Low or no detectable ASCA IgG antibodies suggest that Crohn's disease is less likely. However, absence of ASCA antibodies does not rule out IBD.
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Caution: A positive ASCA test is not diagnostic on its own; it should be used alongside other clinical evaluations and tests (e.g., imaging, biopsy, other lab tests) to confirm a diagnosis.
Sample Type:
- Blood sample: The test is conducted using a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm.
Frequently Asked Question
Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae IgG Antibodies
This test is primarily used to help diagnose inflammatory bowel diseases, especially Crohn’s disease, and distinguish between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
The Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae IgG (ASCA) Antibodies test measures the level of antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast found in the digestive system. High levels of ASCA are often associated with certain autoimmune conditions, particularly inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease.
Covid Safety
Assured
Free Report
Counselling