Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies (ASCA), IgG

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae antibodies, IgG (ASCA IgG) are antibodies directed against certain components of the cell wall of the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae.

ASCA may be detected in a proportion of patients with Crohn’s disease, one of the main forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). ASCA IgG testing may be used as an additional serological test when evaluating patients with suspected inflammatory bowel disease.

The presence of ASCA is not specific exclusively to Crohn’s disease and is not sufficient on its own to establish a diagnosis. The result should be interpreted together with symptoms, medical history, and the results of other investigations, including laboratory, endoscopic, and imaging studies.

Indications

• Suspected inflammatory bowel disease - particularly in the presence of persistent symptoms such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhoea, or changes in bowel habits.
• Differential diagnosis - the test may contribute to distinguishing Crohn’s disease from ulcerative colitis when interpreted together with other clinical findings and investigations.
• Clarification of an unclear clinical situation - as part of a comprehensive assessment when the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease remains uncertain.
• Additional serological assessment - ASCA IgG results may be interpreted together with other markers, including ANCA antibodies, when considered appropriate by the physician.

Research Method

Immunoassay - determination of IgG antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae antigens (ASCA IgG) in blood serum.

Procedure

A venous blood sample is collected, usually from a vein in the antecubital area.

Blood collection takes a few minutes and is performed by a qualified healthcare professional. After the procedure, mild tenderness, a small bruise, or minor bleeding may occur at the puncture site; these usually resolve spontaneously.

Sources:

https://www.mayocliniclabs.com/test-catalog/overview/610003
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1774147/
https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2000/11/22/00-29841/immunology-and-microbiology-devices-classification-of-anti-saccharomyces-cerevisiae-s-cerevisiae

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any pain or exacerbation of illness, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and treatment recommendations. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate course of treatment. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. This is because different laboratories may use different methods and units of measurement for conducting similar tests.