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Islet Cell Antibodies
146.99
The Islet Cell Antibodies test detects autoimmune activity against insulin-producing cells. It helps identify autoimmune diabetes before or after onset.
Turnaround time
3 days
Biomarkers count
1
Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs
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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about Islet Cell Antibodies
What is the Islet Cell Antibodies test?
The Islet Cell Antibodies (ICA) test is a blood test that detects antibodies directed against the islet cells of the pancreas, which are responsible for producing insulin.
The presence of islet cell antibodies indicates an autoimmune response targeting insulin-producing beta cells. This autoimmune process is characteristic of type 1 diabetes and latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA).
ICA testing is used alongside other pancreatic autoantibodies and glucose markers to assess autoimmune diabetes risk, progression, and diagnosis.
Why do I need an Islet Cell Antibodies test?
Autoimmune diabetes can develop gradually and may initially be mistaken for type 2 diabetes. Identifying autoimmune markers helps ensure correct diagnosis and treatment.
You may need an Islet Cell Antibodies test if you:
- Have newly diagnosed diabetes with unclear type
- Are an adult with features suggestive of LADA
- Have a family history of autoimmune diabetes
- Have unexplained high blood glucose
- Have low or declining insulin production
- Are being assessed for autoimmune endocrine disease
- Want early autoimmune diabetes risk assessment
Symptoms linked to autoimmune diabetes include:
- Excessive thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Recurrent infections
Benefits of the Islet Cell Antibodies test
- Identifies autoimmune diabetes
Differentiates type 1 and LADA from type 2 diabetes. - Supports early diagnosis
Detects autoimmune activity before full insulin failure. - Guides appropriate treatment
Helps determine need for insulin therapy. - Clinically established autoimmune marker
Used in endocrinology and diabetes care. - Useful in atypical diabetes cases
Clarifies unclear diagnoses. - Supports risk assessment in relatives
Identifies autoimmune predisposition. - Complements other antibody tests
Works alongside GAD, IA-2 and ZnT8 antibodies. - Simple blood test
Requires only one sample.
Step by step – how the test works
You can access Islet Cell Antibodies testing UK-wide through two options:
- Clinic appointment
Attend your nearest UK clinic, where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample. - At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.
Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory and results are delivered securely.
Your results explained
Negative islet cell antibodies
No evidence of autoimmune attack on pancreatic islet cells.
Typical UK interpretation:
- ICA: Negative
Positive islet cell antibodies
Suggests autoimmune diabetes or increased risk of developing it.
Typical UK interpretation:
- ICA: Positive
Clinical interpretation
A positive result supports autoimmune diabetes but must be interpreted with glucose levels, C-peptide and other autoantibodies.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
3
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always, but it indicates autoimmune risk.
Yes. ICA is commonly tested in suspected LADA.
No fasting is required.
Yes, particularly with family history or symptoms.
They may persist or fluctuate over time.
No. It is part of a broader autoimmune diabetes panel.
Rarely, but it may indicate misclassification.
Not completely; other antibodies may still be present.
Yes. Home or hotel phlebotomy is available UK-wide for £60 extra.
Yes. Endocrinology review is recommended.
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