Islet Cell Antibody

The islet cell antibody test helps detect the presence of islet antibodies in the system. These antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to diabetes and help confirm the condition's presence.

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition in which the autoimmune cells in the body destroy the beta cells that produce insulin. Since insulin is responsible for allowing glucose to enter the cells and produce energy, individuals with type 1 diabetes have too much glucose in their bloodstream.

This gives rise to high blood sugar, characterised by the following symptoms:

• Dehydration, since excessive sugar in the body leads to frequent urination. 
• Weight loss due to frequent urination. 
• Damage to the nerves and small blood vessels in the eyes, kidneys, and heart.

Diabetic ketoacidosis, which occurs when the body breaks down fat to use as fuel. This breakdown is responsible for the release of ketones. The mix of ketones, extra glucose, and dehydration may be life-threatening.

The islet cell antibody test is used as a diagnostic test to determine the nature of diabetes afflicting an individual. Since islet antibodies are only found in type 1 diabetes, this test can be used to confirm the diagnosis and devise the treatment method accordingly.

It is a simple blood test in which the clinical lab technician draws blood from the vein, usually at the bend of the elbow. The blood is then carefully stored and sent for further analysis. The subsequent results may confirm type 1 diabetes if islet cell cytoplasmic autoantibodies (ICA) are present in the blood.

A doctor might also order an islet cell antibody test if the standard treatment for type 2 diabetes is not helping in controlling the glucose levels. In such cases, this test might confirm that the ineffectiveness of the treatment is due to the type 1 diabetes condition in the individual.

To determine the type of diabetes early, Apollo 24|7 offers a comprehensive islet cell antibody test. A doctor recommends this test when an individual is constantly suffering from the symptoms listed below:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Extreme hunger
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue and weakness

Children affected by this condition may also constantly urinate on the bed. If the child starts bed-wetting and has not previously done that, it is advisable to contact a doctor, who might recommend the islet cell antibody test. 
 

Medically reviewed by Dr. K Surya Pavan Reddy, Diabetologist at Apollo Hospitals Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad.