Islet cell antibodies (ICA) are autoantibodies targeting the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. The presence of chronic autoimmune inflammation against islet cells is a key factor in the pathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).
Clinical Significance
- Persistent autoimmune attack leads to the complete destruction of islet cells, resulting in absolute insulin deficiency over time.
- ICA testing is performed alongside other autoantibody tests, including:
- Anti-Insulin Antibodies (IAA)
- Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD) Antibodies
- Tyrosine Phosphatase (IA-2) Antibodies
- Zinc Transporter 8 (ZnT8) Antibodies
- ICA testing is useful for diagnosing Type 1 Diabetes, especially in the early stages before clinical symptoms appear.
- Sample: Venous blood.
- Take the test at least 4 hours after a light meal.
- Avoid alcohol, physical exertion, and emotional stress before the test.
Positive ICA Test May Indicate:
- Type 1 Diabetes (T1D)
- Increased risk of developing T1D in first-degree relatives of diabetic patients
- Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)
Negative ICA Test:
- Absence of autoimmune diabetes
- Not all Type 1 diabetes patients have detectable ICA, so additional autoantibody tests (GAD, IA-2, IAA, ZnT8) may be required.