ASCA IgG (Saccharomyces Cerevisiae)
ASCA IgG (Saccharomyces Cerevisiae)
The IgG antibody test for anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA) measures the level of IgG ASCA, a type of immune protein that is frequently found in people with inflammatory bowel disease. Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC) are two of the most common inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), a group of chronic diseases characterized by inflammation and damage to tissues in and around the lining of the large intestine.
This test is recommended to differentiate between Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s disease. It also helps to predict the severity of the disease condition and the need to undergo surgery as a treatment option
Signs and symptoms of IBD
Abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
Persistent or intermittent diarrhea
Fatigue
Fever
Rectal bleeding
Weight loss
Anemia
Joint and other organ-related symptoms
Delayed development in children
What is the ASCA IgG test used for?
ASCA IgG test is performed:
To help distinguish between Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC)
To monitor treatment progress in case of IBD
To predict the necessity of undergoing surgical treatment for IBD
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for the ASCA IgG test.
Interpretation of the Test Results
A positive ASCA result is not a diagnostic test for CD, UC, or IBD. It is usually performed in conjunction with the pANCA (Perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies) test.
The below table outlines the interpretation of each test result pertaining to your condition.
|
ASCA |
pANCA |
Inference |
|
Positive |
Negative |
You are likely to have Crohn’s disease (CD) |
|
Negative |
Positive |
You are likely to have Ulcerative colitis (UC) |
|
Negative |
Negative |
No IBD |
Note: The normal values for the Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody (ASCA) IgG Test is < 10 Units Per Milliliter (U/mL)
Deviation from normal results indicates the following:
· Elevated levels of ASCA IgG may indicate a higher likelihood of Crohn's disease, though it is not specific to this condition.
Elevated levels of pANCA may indicate the presence of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) that are associated with ulcerative colitis
FAQs
How is the sample collected for the ASCA IgG test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes.
What are the risks associated with an ASCA IgG test?
This test is relatively safe. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of the ASCA IgG test?
ASCA IgG test result is usually available within 2 working days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending upon the diagnostic clinic
Is it necessary to perform ASCA IgG testing more than once?
The frequency of ASCA IgG testing depends on various factors, including medical history, symptoms, and the treating physician's recommendations. In some cases, repeat testing may be necessary to monitor changes or progression of a condition. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing schedule based on your individual health needs
Will ASCA go away once they have developed?
ASCAs (Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies) once developed will continue to be present. Their levels can fluctuate and changes might occur due to treatment, remission, or natural variations. Regular monitoring and medical advice are important to understand the variations and manage the underlying condition effectively
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