Purpose of the Serum Insulin Autoantibody (IAA) Test
Serum Insulin Autoantibody (IAA) test is used to diagnose Type 1 diabetes and distinguish it from other types of diabetes. The test detects the presence of autoantibodies that attack and destroy insulin in the blood.
When this Serum Insulin Autoantibody (IAA) test is required
The IAA test is usually requested when there is a suspicion of Type 1 diabetes, and a doctor wants to confirm the diagnosis. The test may also be requested to monitor the progression of the disease and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.
What the Serum Insulin Autoantibody (IAA) Test Detects
The IAA test measures the level of autoantibodies that attack and destroy insulin in the blood. These autoantibodies are produced by the body’s immune system when it mistakenly attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin.
Preparation for the Serum Insulin Autoantibody (IAA) Test
There is no specific test preparation required for the IAA test.
Sample Requirements
A blood sample is required for the IAA test.
Additional Notes
The IAA test is not used to diagnose Type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form of diabetes. This test is also not used to monitor the treatment or progression of Type 2 diabetes. The IAA test is specific to Type 1 diabetes.