Antiparietal cells antibodies test

An antiparietal cells antibodies test is a blood test that looks for antibodies against the parietal cells of the stomach. The parietal cells make and release a substance that the body needs to absorb vitamin B12.

How is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see:

Preparation for the Test

No special preparation is necessary.

Why is the Test Performed?

Your health care provider may use this test to help diagnose pernicious anemia. Other tests are also used to help with the diagnosis.

Normal Results for Antiparietal cells antibodies test

A negative result is normal.

What Abnormal Results Mean

A positive test result is abnormal. This may be due to:

• Atrophic gastritis
• Diabetes
• Gastric ulcer
• Pernicious anemia
• Thyroid disease

Antiparietal cells antibodies test Risks

Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.

Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling light-headed
• Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
• Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)

References

Antony AC. Megaloblastic anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 170.

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