ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test
About ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | ASCA IgA, Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody IgA, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody IgA, ASCA Antibody IgA |
| Sample Type | Venous blood (serum) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | Usually within 2 working days after sample collection |
| Recommended For | Adults and children with suspected inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), regardless of gender |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,200 |
What Is an ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test?
The ASCA IgA test measures a specific type of antibody in the blood called Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody IgA. These antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to a common yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, found in baking and brewing. Doctors often order this test to help evaluate patients who may have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A venous blood sample is used, and the test is also known by its alternate names: ASCA Antibody IgA and Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody IgA.
What Does an ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test Measure?
This test detects a single immune protein in the blood. Below is a brief explanation of what is measured and why it matters.
| Parameter | What It Measures | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| ASO Antibody Level (Titre)ASCA IgA | IgA-class antibodies directed against Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast | IgA antibodies are linked to mucosal surfaces such as the gut lining, making them relevant to intestinal immune responses |
The Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody test is typically used alongside other markers, such as pANCA, to get a clearer picture of which type of IBD may be present.
Why Is an ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test Done?
This test is ordered when a doctor suspects that a patient may have an inflammatory bowel condition but needs additional information to reach a clearer diagnosis.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- Persistent or recurring abdominal pain and cramps
- Ongoing diarrhoea that does not resolve
- Extreme tiredness not explained by other causes
- Unexplained weight loss or reduced appetite
- Blood in the stool
- Low-grade or recurring fever
- Mouth sores or ulcers
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
A doctor may use the ASCA IgA blood test to help identify or differentiate between the following conditions:
- Crohn's disease, where ASCA IgA is frequently detected
- Ulcerative colitis, to distinguish it from Crohn's disease when endoscopic or imaging findings are unclear
- Intestinal tuberculosis, as ASCA may assist in differential diagnosis
- Autoimmune liver diseases, such as primary biliary cirrhosis and autoimmune hepatitis, where ASCA has also been detected
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparing for this test is straightforward. The process is quick, and most people find it comfortable.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required before the ASCA IgA blood test. Because the test measures antibodies rather than nutrients or metabolites, recent food intake does not affect the result. However, if your doctor has ordered additional tests alongside this one, check whether any of those require fasting.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Inform your doctor about any recent infections, as these can influence antibody levels
- Disclose your full medical history, including any autoimmune conditions, before the test
- Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, even though most common drugs do not interfere with this test
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose-fitting top for easy access to your arm during collection
- Stay well hydrated, as this helps make veins easier to locate
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A trained phlebotomist (blood collection specialist) ties a soft band around your upper arm to help locate a suitable vein.
- The skin over the selected vein is cleaned with an alcohol-based antiseptic.
- A sterile, disposable needle is gently inserted into the vein, and the band is then released.
- A small amount of blood is drawn into a labelled collection tube with no additives.
- The needle is removed, and a small cotton swab or bandage is placed over the site.
- The sample is sealed and sent to the laboratory for analysis. The entire procedure usually takes no more than five minutes.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Recent infections, which may temporarily alter antibody levels
- A personal or family history of autoimmune disease
- Individual genetic factors that affect immune system activity
- Differences in laboratory methods and testing platforms
- Dietary and environmental factors that influence gut health
Understanding Your ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test Results
Your results should always be reviewed alongside your clinical symptoms and full medical history. A doctor is best placed to explain what your specific result means for you.
| Parameter | Negative (Normal) | Equivocal | Positive |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASCA IgA | 20.0 Units or below | 20.1 to 24.9 Units | 25.0 Units or above |
These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
A negative result suggests a lower likelihood of Crohn's disease, but it does not rule it out entirely. Roughly 25% of people with Crohn's disease test negative for ASCA repeatedly. A positive result indicates a higher likelihood of Crohn's disease, though it is not conclusive on its own.
Results During Special Conditions
ASCA IgA antibodies are not exclusive to IBD. They have been detected in people with autoimmune liver diseases, including primary biliary cirrhosis, autoimmune hepatitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis, which means a positive result must be interpreted carefully.
Additionally, medications such as prednisolone may reduce ASCA IgA levels, though a person's overall ASCA status tends to remain stable during treatment.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The following general wellness habits may support digestive health:
- Eating a varied, balanced diet that includes fibre-rich foods to support gut health
- Managing stress through regular physical activity, adequate sleep, or relaxation techniques, as stress may worsen digestive symptoms
- Consulting a gastroenterologist promptly if you experience persistent digestive symptoms, rather than waiting for them to resolve on their own
Lupin Diagnostics ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test Price and Home Collection
The ASCA IgA test price in India typically starts at around ₹1,200, with home collection available for your convenience. The table below shows approximate prices across major cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| Bangalore | ₹1,950 |
| Mumbai | ₹1,950 |
| Hyderabad | ₹1,950 |
| Chennai | ₹1,950 |
| Kolkata | ₹1,950 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home sample collection for the Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody test across multiple cities in India. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by experienced technologists. Your digital report is delivered securely via email or WhatsApp, so you can easily share it with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
The ASCA IgA test is used to help distinguish between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, the two most common forms of inflammatory bowel disease. It is ordered when a clinical diagnosis remains unclear after endoscopy, imaging, or pathology findings.
The Anti-Saccharomyces Cerevisiae IgA test detects antibodies in roughly 35% of people with Crohn's disease, but in fewer than 1% of those with ulcerative colitis. When both IgA and IgG ASCA antibodies are positive together in the same sample, the finding is considered highly specific for Crohn's disease.
No. A negative ASCA IgA blood test result does not rule out Crohn's disease. Approximately 25% of people with confirmed Crohn's disease test negative for ASCA repeatedly. Your doctor will use this result alongside other clinical findings.
No fasting is needed. The test measures antibodies in the blood, and these are not affected by food or drink consumed before the test. You can eat and drink normally on the day of your sample collection.
Common medications such as antihistamines, corticosteroids, and anti-inflammatory drugs do not interfere with antibody measurement in this test. That said, always inform your doctor about every medication you are taking before the test.
Yes, levels may fluctuate somewhat, rising during active phases of disease and dropping during periods of remission. However, once the body has produced these antibodies, they generally continue to be present. This is why the test is not used repeatedly to monitor disease activity.
The Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Antibody IgA test is most commonly ordered together with a pANCA (perinuclear anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody) test. If ASCA is positive and pANCA is negative, Crohn's disease is considered more likely. If ASCA is negative and pANCA is positive, ulcerative colitis is the more probable diagnosis.
ASCA IgA Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Test
