Alternative names
APCA; Antiparietal cells antibodies

Definition
A test that measures the presence of antibodies against gastric parietal cells.

How the test is performed
Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture). The sample is then taken to the lab, where the serum is separated from the cells. A sample of the serum is then placed on a slide with samples from a mouse kidney and stomach, which contain parietal cells. If the patient’s serum has parietal cell antibodies, they will react with the parietal cells on the slide.

How to prepare for the test
No special preparation is necessary.

Why the test is performed
Your health care provider may use this test to aid in the diagnosis of pernicious anemia. Other tests are also used to help with the diagnosis.

Normal Values

Negative.

What abnormal results mean

A positive test result may indicate:

 
• pernicious anemia  
• atrophic gastritis  
• gastric ulcer  
• thyroid disease  
• Iron deficiency anemia  
• Diabetes

Special considerations

Less than 2% of the general population test positive for antiparietal cell antibodies, but that percentage increases with age. In people over 60, up to 16% may test positive for antiparietal cell antibodies.

Medical Encyclopedia

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