Anti-gliadin antibody IgA test
Quick answer: This test measures IgA antibodies against gliadin, a part of gluten found in wheat, barley and rye. It was used to look for coeliac disease; tissue transglutaminase (tTG) and endomysial antibody tests are now preferred.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testKeep eating your usual diet with gluten before the test unless your doctor advises otherwise, as stopping gluten can give a false negative.
How the test is done
- 1You keep eating foods with gluten as usual before the test
- 2A nurse draws a small tube of blood
- 3The lab measures IgA antibodies to gliadin
- 4Results are often read with tTG-IgA and total IgA
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result is not enough on its own to diagnose coeliac disease; discuss further tests with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A raised level can be seen with coeliac disease, but also with other gut conditions and in some healthy people. A negative result does not rule out coeliac disease, especially if you have cut down on gluten.
Who usually has this test
People with symptoms of coeliac disease, usually as part of a coeliac panel, and some young children.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible; keep eating gluten until your doctor has seen all your coeliac results.
Names and options
Also called: AGA IgA, gliadin antibody, coeliac antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- ANTI GLIADIN ANTIBODY IGA, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why must I keep eating gluten before the test?
Antibodies fall when gluten is removed from the diet, which can give a falsely negative result. Do not start a gluten-free diet until testing is complete.
Is anti-gliadin IgA still used?
Older anti-gliadin tests are less reliable than tTG-IgA, so many guidelines no longer use them alone. Some labs still offer them, mainly for young children.
Can coeliac disease affect fertility?
Untreated coeliac disease has been linked with unexplained infertility and miscarriage in some studies. If you have symptoms, testing and treatment can help.
Related tests
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.