Serological testing of antibodies against Saccharomyces fungi is used in the laboratory to distinguish ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease in patients screened for inflammatory bowel disease.
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This test allows the detection of antibodies against Saccharomyces cerevisiae mannan, a mannose-containing phosphopeptide located on the cell membrane of S. cerevisiae. Detection of ASCA antibodies facilitates the differential diagnosis of Crohn's disease by ulcerative colitis, especially in the early stages of the disease.
Ulcerative colitis is an inflammation of the inner lining of the intestinal mucosa that is confined to the large intestine and rectum and can also lead to ulcers. Crohn's disease causes inflammation that can spread to deeper layers of the walls in the colon.
Crohn's disease results in significantly higher serum concentrations of ASCA antibodies than ulcerative colitis. Studies have shown that 75% of Crohn's disease patients have ASCA IgG class antibodies in their serum and 60% have ASCA IgA class antibodies. In contrast, only 5% of patients with ulcerative colitis have elevated ASCA IgG antibody titers and only 7% have high IgA ASCA antibody titers.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
