These tests can help determine if you have celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks itself with its own antibodies. With celiac, the ingestion of gluten (a protein found in wheat and barley) triggers an immune response which means that your own immune system attacks your small intestine. These tests check for certain antibodies (transglutaminase IgA and others) that your immune system would create if it were hypersensitive to gluten. For accurate results, your diet should include gluten at the time of testing.

You might consider testing when experiencing the following:

• Digestive problems including abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, weight loss, or foul-smelling stool

• Unexplained rash, joint symptoms, or anemia

Test should not be ordered if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Blood in your stool or a medical condition requiring immediate medical attention

• Fever, night sweats, or flushing

This test does not require fasting.