Antiparietal cells antibodies

Definition

Antiparietal cells antibodies is a test to measure the presence of antibodies against the parietal cells of the stomach. The parietal cells make and release intrinsic factor and stomach acid. Intrinsic factor is needed to absorb vitamin B12.

Alternative Names

APCA; Anti-gastric parietal cell antibodies

How the test is performed

Blood is typically drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The site is cleaned with germ-killing medicine (antiseptic). The health care provider wraps an elastic band around the upper arm to apply pressure to the area and make the vein swell with blood.

Next, the health care provider gently inserts a needle into the vein. The blood collects into an airtight vial or tube attached to the needle. The elastic band is removed from your arm. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

In infants or young children, a sharp tool called a lancet may be used to puncture the skin and make it bleed. The blood collects into a small glass tube called a pipette, or onto a slide or test strip. A bandage may be placed over the area if there is any bleeding.

The blood is sent to the lab, where the liquid portion of the blood (serum) is separated from the cells. A sample of the serum is placed on a slide with samples from a mouse kidney and stomach, which contain parietal cells. If your serum contains parietal cell antibodies, these antibodies 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 help diagnose pernicious anemia. Other tests are also used to help with the diagnosis.

Normal Values

The test is negative.

What abnormal results mean

A positive test result may indicate:

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

What the risks are

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)

Special considerations

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

References

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