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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
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Recognition of Epidermal Transglutaminase by IgA and Tissue Transglutaminase 2 Antibodies in a Rare Case of Rhesus Dermatitis
Published on: December 15, 2011
Serological and histological correlations in celiac disease
Simina Tărmure1, Anca Cristea, D Sămpelean
114th Medical Clinic, "Iuliu Haţieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania. starmure@hotmail.com
Summary
Testing for both anti-tissue-transglutaminase (ATTG) and antiendomysium (AEA) antibodies significantly improves celiac disease diagnosis sensitivity. ATTG antibodies are more sensitive than AEA, and high levels suggest severe histological damage.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Diagnostics
Background:
- Celiac disease diagnosis relies on serological markers and small bowel biopsy.
- Sensitivity of individual serological markers can vary in patients with untreated celiac disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the diagnostic sensitivity of antiendomysium antibodies (AEA) and anti-tissue-transglutaminase antibodies (ATTG) in untreated celiac disease.
- To evaluate the combined diagnostic efficiency of AEA and ATTG.
- To correlate antibody levels with histological lesion severity.
Main Methods:
- Study included 26 patients with biopsy-confirmed villous atrophy.
- Sera were tested for AEA (indirect immunofluorescence) and ATTG (sandwich-ELISA).
- Histological severity was assessed using modified Marsh criteria.
Main Results:
- Combined AEA and ATTG testing achieved 88% sensitivity.
- ATTG sensitivity was 100% in total villous atrophy (TVA), while AEA sensitivity was 92%.
- Combined testing reduced seronegativity in partial (PVA) and subtotal villous atrophy (SVA) cases.
Conclusions:
- Anti-tissue-transglutaminase antibodies (ATTG) are more sensitive than antiendomysium antibodies (AEA) for diagnosing celiac disease.
- Simultaneous determination of AEA and ATTG enhances diagnostic efficiency.
- High antibody levels correlate with severe histological alterations (TVA).
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