Parietal cell antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against parietal cells, the stomach cells that help absorb vitamin B12. Doctors usually order it with intrinsic factor antibody when they suspect pernicious anaemia or autoimmune gastritis.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You are seated and your sleeve rolled up
- 2A vein near your elbow is cleaned
- 3A small needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab checks for antibodies to stomach parietal cells
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result does not by itself confirm a disease, because some healthy people test positive; your doctor reads it with your symptoms and other tests.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can be seen with pernicious anaemia and autoimmune gastritis, and sometimes with autoimmune thyroid disease or in healthy older people. A negative result makes pernicious anaemia less likely but does not exclude it.
Who usually has this test
People with low vitamin B12, a large-cell anaemia, tingling in the hands or feet, or autoimmune thyroid disease.
Risks and aftercare
Slight soreness at the needle site is possible; keep taking any B12 your doctor prescribed.
Names and options
Also called: APCA, anti-parietal cell antibody, gastric parietal cell antibody
Listed by the hospital as
- PARIETAL CELL ANTIBODY
Questions about this test
How is parietal cell antibody different from intrinsic factor antibody?
Parietal cell antibody is more sensitive but less specific, while intrinsic factor antibody is more specific for pernicious anaemia. Doctors often order both together.
Can parietal cell antibodies cause low iron too?
Autoimmune gastritis can lower stomach acid, which can affect iron absorption as well as B12. Your doctor may check iron levels too.
Do I need to stop B12 tablets before this test?
Do not stop any medicine or supplement on your own. Tell the staff what you take, and your doctor will advise.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.