Deamidated Gliadin IgA

What is Deamidated Gliadin IgA?

Deamidated gliadin peptide IgA antibodies are part of the blood test panel used to screen for celiac disease, an immune reaction triggered by gluten.

Deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) IgA antibodies target a modified form of gliadin, a protein found in wheat, that becomes more reactive to the immune system after a chemical change called deamidation. This test is used, often alongside tissue transglutaminase IgA antibodies, as part of celiac disease screening. Accurate results depend on the person having been consistently eating gluten-containing foods before testing, since eliminating gluten beforehand can lead to a falsely reassuring result. A positive result supports further evaluation, which may include specialist referral and additional testing, rather than confirming celiac disease outright. It is interpreted together with total IgA levels, other celiac antibodies, and digestive symptoms.

Lifestyle factors that influence this marker

• Aim for a balanced, nutrient-rich eating pattern with plenty of vegetables, fruit, and whole grains as advised by a healthcare professional
• Stay physically active with regular moderate exercise
• Prioritize consistent, restorative sleep
• Practice stress-management techniques
• Consider discussing any dietary changes with a registered dietitian before making them, especially around testing

Tests often checked alongside this

• Deamidated Gliadin IgG — used together, particularly when total IgA is low
• IgA (Immunoglobulin A) — checked to rule out IgA deficiency, which can affect this test
• ESR and hs-CRP — general inflammation markers sometimes reviewed alongside

How this can show up in how you look and feel

• May be associated with digestive symptoms such as bloating or abdominal discomfort
• May be associated with fatigue
• May be associated with unintended weight or appetite changes
• May be associated with symptoms related to low iron

What can affect this marker

• Age
• Medications
• Lab variability between testing methods

What to track over time

• Whether results correlate with digestive symptoms over time
• How this result compares with total IgA and other celiac antibody testing
• Whether follow-up evaluation is considered based on this and related results

What to ask your doctor

• Was I eating enough gluten-containing food for this test to be accurate?
• Should my total IgA level also be checked?
• What would follow-up evaluation involve if this result is positive?
• How does this relate to my digestive symptoms?

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