Coeliac disease (CD) is an
autoimmune condition affecting the small intestinal mucosa of genetically
predisposed individuals. This condition is due to intolerance to
ingested gluten (storage protein) found in wheat, rye and barley.
Symptoms such as diarrhoea, weight loss, retarded growth and secondary
anaemia can be found in patients.
IgA endomysial staining
pattern is due to binding of the antibody with tissue transglutaminase
antigen found in the cytoplasm of the enterocyte. These antibodies are
sensitive and specific marker of CD. Note that measurement of tissue
transglutaminase levels have superseded other methods.
Image: Primate oesophagus stained with
serum from patient with CD. The network of fibres around the smooth
muscle cells in the muscularis mucosa are stained with IgA.
