Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody

Overview:

Vitamin B12 can only be absorbed from the gut when bound to intrinsic factor, a protein made by cells in the stomach lining. In pernicious anemia, the immune system produces antibodies that block this process, so B12 cannot be absorbed no matter how much is eaten. Detecting these antibodies is highly specific to pernicious anemia, meaning a positive result strongly supports the diagnosis. The test is less sensitive, so a negative result does not rule it out, and parietal cell antibodies or other assessment may be added. Recent B12 injections can interfere with the result.

Categories:

Autoimmune, Vitamins & Nutrients

Biomarkers:

1 biomarker