How can we help?

Home

Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA

Also referred as

Anti-parietal cell antibodies

Anti-gastric parietal cell antibody (GPC)

APCA

GPCA

For men & women

Earliest reports in

216 hours

Contains

1 test

Know more about this test

The Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA is a blood test that detects antibodies against the parietal cells of the stomach. It helps diagnose autoimmune atrophic gastritis and pernicious anemia, facilitating timely intervention to reduce symptoms and prevent long-term damage.

Samples required

Blood

Find out

Why is this test booked?

Preparations

Overnight fasting required for 8 to 12 hours

Sample Collection

Who will collect your samples?

Understanding Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA

Parietal cells (oxyntic cells) are special cells in the stomach lining that help secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) for digestion and produce intrinsic factors, which are essential for the absorption of vitamin B12. Parietal cell antibodies (PCA) are harmful antibodies that attack healthy parietal cells, resulting in reduced intrinsic factor production, making it harder for the body to absorb vitamin B12, and also lowering the amount of hydrochloric acid, which can affect digestion.

The Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test is suggested for individuals who have symptoms such as ongoing stomach pain or inflammation, weakness, tiredness, or nerve problems. It is also recommended for those having immune-mediated deficiency of vitamin B12 or anemia, or for those with a family history of autoimmune disorders. This test indicates if the immune system is damaging the parietal cells in the stomach. It helps doctors track how the disease is progressing and how well the treatment is working, while also identifying people at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency.

Overnight fasting is preferred for this test but is not mandatory. Inform the doctor about all the medications or supplements being taken, as these factors may influence the test results.

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Abnormal test results require expert interpretation. Therefore, never try to self-medicate based solely on these results. Always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.

What does Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA measure?

The Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test detects the presence of antibodies that attack the stomach's parietal cells. These antibodies can cause damage to the stomach lining, which affects the production of HCL and intrinsic factors, both needed for digestion and absorbing vitamin B12. A positive test result means there may be an autoimmune problem with the stomach, while a negative result doesn’t completely rule out related conditions. Knowing if these antibodies are present helps doctors diagnose autoimmune gastritis, assess the risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, and manage anemia or other problems. The test helps doctors formulate treatment plans, such as vitamin B12 supplements, and monitor other autoimmune issues.

Frequently booked together

FAQs related to Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA

What is the Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test?

The Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test is a blood test that detects antibodies against the stomach's parietal cells. It helps diagnose autoimmune conditions like autoimmune gastritis and pernicious anemia, which can affect digestion and vitamin B12 absorption.

Why do I need the Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test?

Your doctor may suggest this test if you have symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, like tiredness, weakness, or numbness. It can also be recommended if you have unexplained anemia or stomach problems like abdominal pain. The test is used to check for autoimmune conditions that affect the stomach.

Do I need to prepare for this test?

An overnight fasting is preferred for the Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test or advised by the physician. However, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may affect the results.

Can the Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test diagnose pernicious anemia?

The Parietal Cell Antibody, IFA test can help support a diagnosis of pernicious anemia by showing autoimmune damage to parietal cells. However, it is usually used along with other tests, like checking vitamin B12 levels and testing for intrinsic factor antibodies, to make a more accurate diagnosis.

What does a positive test result mean?

A positive result means there are autoantibodies against the parietal cells, which could suggest autoimmune gastritis or a higher risk of pernicious anemia. Further tests and a doctor's evaluation are needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What does a negative test result mean?

A negative result doesn't completely rule out autoimmune gastritis or related conditions, but it makes it less likely that parietal cell antibodies are present. Your doctor might recommend other tests to look at your condition more closely.

Will having parietal cell antibodies affect my vitamin B12 levels?

Yes, having parietal cell antibodies can damage the stomach lining, which can affect your digestion and intrinsic factor production, leading to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Where are the parietal cells located, and what role do they play in the body?

Parietal cells are found in the stomach lining. They make hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, a protein that helps absorb vitamin B12 from food. They are essential for digestion and for keeping vitamin B12 levels healthy.

Can having parietal cell antibodies lead to long-term health problems?

Yes, if not treated, the damage caused by parietal cell antibodies can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. This can cause long-term health problems, including anemia and neurological symptoms. Early detection and treatment are important.

Can parietal cell antibodies be found in healthy individuals?

Yes, parietal cell antibodies can occasionally be detected in healthy individuals, especially older adults. However, their presence in healthy people does not always lead to disease. Clinical context and additional testing are important for assessing risk.

Is pernicious anemia curable?

Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition, cannot be permanently cured. However, the symptoms can be effectively managed with lifelong treatment. While vitamin B12 deficiency can be treated through supplementation or injections, there is no cure for the underlying autoimmune response that causes the deficiency.

How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

Content created by

Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand)

MBBS, MD Lab Medicine

Want to know moreRead our editorial policy

Last Updated

4th Nov 2025