Gluten Allergy Test
Gluten Allergy Test can be requested without a referral, and this overview covers what to expect. A gluten allergy test is a blood test used to look for antibodies the immune system makes after exposure to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is usually ordered when a person has symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, rash, or fatigue after eating gluten-containing foods, or when a clinician wants to check for celiac disease or a wheat allergy.
- Sample type
- blood
- Category
- Allergy
- Turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Price
- $29
- Referral
- Not required
A gluten allergy test is a blood test used to look for antibodies the immune system makes after exposure to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is usually ordered when a person has symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, rash, or fatigue after eating gluten-containing foods, or when a clinician wants to check for celiac disease or a wheat allergy.
What it measures
- tTG-IgA — The main antibody checked for celiac disease; high levels suggest the immune system is reacting to gluten.
- Total IgA — A control level that shows whether the IgA antibody result can be trusted.
- DGP-IgA and DGP-IgG — Additional antibodies that can support or clarify celiac testing.
- Wheat-specific IgE — An antibody linked to true wheat allergy rather than celiac disease.
- EMA-IgA — A more specific celiac antibody, sometimes used to confirm a positive tTG-IgA.
Who it is for
A primary care clinician, gastroenterologist, or allergist typically orders this test. It may also be ordered for a child or adult with a family history of celiac disease or wheat allergy.
Preparation
No fasting is usually required. For accurate results, you should keep eating gluten-containing foods before the test unless your clinician tells you otherwise.
Results and what they mean
Results are reported as numbers with a reference range, and a clinician interprets them alongside your symptoms and history. A positive result does not by itself confirm a diagnosis, and a negative result does not always rule one out. This is general information, not medical advice; discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
How to order this test
- Choose the test and place a confidential order online.
- Select a certified collection site and pick a time that suits you.
- Have your specimen collected — most draws take only a few minutes.
- Review results in a secure portal, typically within 1–3 days.
Preparation, hours, and pricing vary by site; confirm details directly with the lab before your visit.
Availability by state
Direct-access online ordering for the gluten allergy test is available in most states. It is currently unavailable in 6 states:
Everywhere else you can order confidentially and collect your sample at a certified site. Browse by state →
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to stop eating gluten before this test?
No. Stopping gluten before testing can make results falsely low, so keep your normal diet unless your clinician instructs otherwise.
How long does it take to get results?
Most labs return results in about 1 to 3 business days, though timing can vary by lab and location.
Does a positive result mean I have celiac disease?
Not necessarily. A positive result shows antibodies are present, but a clinician may recommend further testing to confirm the cause.
Can this test tell the difference between celiac disease and wheat allergy?
It can help. Different antibodies point toward celiac disease or wheat allergy, and a clinician uses the pattern to guide next steps.