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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Why Is Intrinsic Factor Antibody Tests Advised When Suffering From Anemia?

I was diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia in 2006. I have low B12 right now without anemia. My gastroenterologist has ordered parietal antibody and intrinsic factor antibody labs? Why would he order them for me? Do you think he may be questioning the original diagnosis?
Mon, 22 Jun 2015
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
I read your question and I understand your concern.

Intrinsic factor antibody test is used to help determine the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency and confirm the diagnosis of pernicious anemia. It is done usually when a person has vitamin B12 deficiency and when pernicious anemia is suspected (as a follow up test after other laboratory tests, such as vitamin B12 test, methylmalonic acid test or a CBC with blood smear examination, establish that a person has a vitamin B12 deficiency and associated megaloblastic anemia associated or not with neuropathy. It is often done in conjunction with parietal antibody test to help establish the diagnosis. Parietal antibodies test is not as specific as the intrinsic factor antibody test.

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Why Is Intrinsic Factor Antibody Tests Advised When Suffering From Anemia?

I read your question and I understand your concern. Intrinsic factor antibody test is used to help determine the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency and confirm the diagnosis of pernicious anemia. It is done usually when a person has vitamin B12 deficiency and when pernicious anemia is suspected (as a follow up test after other laboratory tests, such as vitamin B12 test, methylmalonic acid test or a CBC with blood smear examination, establish that a person has a vitamin B12 deficiency and associated megaloblastic anemia associated or not with neuropathy. It is often done in conjunction with parietal antibody test to help establish the diagnosis. Parietal antibodies test is not as specific as the intrinsic factor antibody test. I hope this answers your question and I wish you a good health