Test Price
450 AED✅ Home Collection Available
Islet Cell Antibody (ICA) Test in Dubai, UAE – Autoimmune Diabetes Marker
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Guarantee of Diagnostic Accuracy
- 99.9% Diagnostic Sensitivity – Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) processed in a CAP-accredited, ISO 9001:2015 facility.
- VIP Mobile Phlebotomy & Temperature-Controlled Cold-Chain Home Collection – Available daily from 8 AM to 11 PM. Hospital-grade phlebotomy with certified cold-chain transport, ensuring sample integrity from doorstep to lab.
- Telephonic Post-Test Clinical Guidance – A licensed general practitioner interprets results and advises on next steps, at no extra cost.
- Insurance Direct Billing – Share your policy card via WhatsApp +971 54 548 8731 for instant verification.
Test Overview & Methodology
The Islet Cell Antibody (ICA) test detects autoantibodies directed against cytoplasmic components of pancreatic islet cells, serving as a crucial serological marker for autoimmune type 1 diabetes. It is recommended for individuals with recent-onset hyperglycemia, a family history of diabetes, or concurrent autoimmune conditions. The gold-standard methodology used is Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA), which offers superior sensitivity and specificity compared to alternative ELISA-based methods.
| Feature | Our ICA Test | Closest Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Precision | 99.9% Sensitivity (IFA, ISO 9001:2015) | ELISA-based; 85–92% sensitivity, batch-dependent |
| Methodology | Indirect Immunofluorescence (Gold Standard) | Recombinant antigen ELISA |
| Turnaround | Next-day report (sample by 11 AM) | 2–3 working days |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
Dr. Ajay Singh – General Practitioner, DHA Registration ID: 36234132
“A positive ICA result does not guarantee progression to type 1 diabetes; it serves as one element within a broader autoimmune and metabolic assessment. I always interpret this finding alongside glucose tolerance testing, HbA1c, and other autoantibodies such as GAD and IA-2 before initiating any management plan. Patients must never discontinue prescribed insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents without prior consultation with their treating physician.”
Important Safety Advisory
Important Safety Information
- Exclusion Criteria for Testing: Recent high-dose immunosuppressive therapy (within 14 days) may yield false-negative results. Inform the lab if you are on prednisone, biologics, or chemotherapy.
- Emergency Red Flags: If you experience rapid weight loss, persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, or deep/rapid breathing (signs of diabetic ketoacidosis), proceed directly to the nearest Emergency Department regardless of test status.
- Medication Warning: Do not discontinue prescribed medication without consulting your treating physician. This test is not a substitute for clinical management.
Patient Exclusion Criteria
Testing should be deferred in individuals who have received high-dose systemic corticosteroids or biologic immunosuppressants within the past 14 days, as these agents can suppress autoantibody production and lead to false-negative results. Patients with acute febrile illness or active infection should also postpone testing until clinical resolution. This assessment is conducted in accordance with Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What exactly does the Islet Cell Antibody test measure?
The test identifies circulating autoantibodies that target cytoplasmic proteins within pancreatic insulin-producing islet cells, indicating an autoimmune attack. A positive result suggests increased risk for developing type 1 diabetes, often preceding clinical symptoms by months to years.
2. Do I need to fast before the ICA blood draw?
No fasting or special preparation is required because the test measures immune markers, not glucose or lipids. However, inform your phlebotomist of any recent illnesses or medications.
3. Can I use home collection for my child (minor)?
Yes, our pediatric phlebotomists are trained to collect samples from minors, and a parent or legal guardian must be present during the entire collection procedure. Consent protocols follow Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability.
4. How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available the next working day after sample collection. If the sample is received at the laboratory before 11 AM, the report is delivered by the following day. For samples collected after 11 AM, results may take an additional 24 hours.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
Regulatory Compliance & Data Protection
All diagnostic procedures at DNA Labs UAE are conducted in full compliance with UAE federal laws governing medical practice and data privacy:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) – ensures secure processing of patient health information.
- Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields – governs telemedicine and digital health data handling.
- Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability – establishes standards for patient consent and clinical safety.
The laboratory holds ISO 9001:2015 certification (Certificate No. INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139) and is licensed by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) under facility license number 1143.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | Islet Cell Antibody (ICA) – Immunofluorescence |
| Price (AED) | 450 AED |
| Turnaround Time | Next working day (if sample received by 11 AM) |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Serum (gold-top tube) or Plasma (lithium heparin) |
| Methodology Used | Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on primate pancreas substrate |
| ICD-10-CM Code | E10.9, Z13.1 |
| LOINC Code | 57890-0 |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | License: 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE |
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