Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody IFA (PCA) Test
Blood Sample
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About Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test
Anti-parietal cell antibodies are autoantibodies that target the parietal cells of the stomach. These cells are involved in the production of gastric acid and intrinsic factor, which is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. The presence of anti-parietal cell antibodies is associated with certain autoimmune conditions, particularly pernicious anaemia.
Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) is a laboratory technique used to detect the presence of antibodies in a patient's blood serum. Thus, getting this test through IFA can be helpful in the diagnosis of pernicious anaemia.
This test is also known as
PCA Test, Parietal Cell Ab, IgG, S, GPCA Test, Parietal Cell Antibody (PCA) Test, Gastric Parietal Cell Antibody Test, Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody Test
Symptoms of pernicious anaemia
The symptoms of pernicious anaemia may vary from one person to another. Common symptoms include
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Diarrhea or constipation
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Nausea and vomiting
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Fatigue
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Pale skin (mild jaundice)
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Shortness of breath
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Bleeding gums
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Confusion
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Depression
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Loss of balance
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Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
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Hallucinations
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Optic nerve atrophy
Who should get tested?
Anti-parietal cell antibody, IFA test is recommended for individuals with
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Vitamin B12 deficiency or lack of intrinsic factor
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Macrocytic anemia
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A family history of autoimmune disorders
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Symptoms of gastric problems
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A history of gastric cancer
Test Preparation
No preparation is required for the anti-parietal cell antibody, IFA test.
Interpretation of the results
The result may come as positive or negative.
Positive result
If your test results are positive, it indicates the presence of antibodies in the parietal cells. It may be suggestive of pernicious anaemia or related autoimmune disease.
Negative result
If your test results are negative, it indicates the absence of antibodies in the parietal cells.
FAQs
During this blood test, a healthcare professional will take a small amount of blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. The sample is then collected into a test tube or vial. This usually takes place within a few minutes.
There are no known risks. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly.
The anti-parietal cell antibody, IFA test results are usually available within 2-4 working days after sample collection. This duration may vary depending upon the diagnostic clinic.
Pernicious anaemia is a type of anaemia caused by a deficiency of vitamin B12 due to the impaired absorption of this vitamin. It results from the autoimmune destruction of stomach cells (parietal cells) producing intrinsic factors, essential for B12 absorption.
The results of the anti-parietal cell antibody, IFA test can be influenced by various factors. Medical conditions such as thyroid disease, certain medications such as proton pump inhibitors, and the presence of H. pylori infection can potentially cause inaccurate results, either false-positive or false-negative. Prior to undergoing the test, it is important to disclose any medications or medical conditions to your healthcare provider.
Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody IFA (PCA) Test
