The ASCA (Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae Antibody) IgG & IgM Panel is a blood test that measures antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a type of yeast. These antibodies are commonly found in individuals with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), particularly Crohn’s disease.
This test helps differentiate Crohn’s disease from other conditions like ulcerative colitis and supports accurate diagnosis.
The ASCA (Anti Saccharomyces cerevisiae Antibody) IgG & IgM Panel is performed to:
Detect ASCA IgG and IgM antibodies
Help diagnose Crohn’s disease
Differentiate between types of inflammatory bowel disease
The ASCA (Anti-Saccharomyces cerevisiae Antibody) IgG & IgM Panel is a blood test that detects IgG and IgM antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's or brewer's yeast). These antibodies are commonly associated with Crohn's disease, a type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and help differentiate it from Ulcerative Colitis (UC).
Healthcare providers often recommend this test for individuals experiencing persistent gastrointestinal symptoms such as chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, rectal bleeding, fatigue, or unexplained intestinal inflammation. While the ASCA Panel alone cannot confirm or rule out Crohn's disease, it serves as a valuable diagnostic aid when interpreted alongside clinical symptoms, endoscopy findings, imaging studies, biopsy results, and other laboratory tests such as pANCA.
Furthermore, the test may help support early diagnosis, guide further investigations, and assist healthcare providers in developing an appropriate treatment plan for patients with suspected inflammatory bowel disease.
The ASCA Panel detects antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and helps support the diagnosis of Crohn's disease. It is also useful in distinguishing Crohn's disease from Ulcerative Colitis when used alongside other diagnostic tests.
No. Fasting is generally not required for the ASCA (IgG & IgM) Panel Test. However, always follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider before sample collection.
A positive ASCA result may indicate an increased likelihood of Crohn's disease, particularly when accompanied by compatible symptoms and other diagnostic findings. However, the test alone cannot confirm the diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results along with your medical history, physical examination, endoscopy, imaging, and other laboratory tests to reach an accurate diagnosis.