Gastric Parietal Cell Antibody, IgG
Also known as: PCA
Use
This test is used to evaluate pernicious anemia or immune-mediated deficiency of vitamin B12, with or without megaloblastic anemia. The presence of gastric parietal cell antibodies (PCA) and/or intrinsic factor antibodies, especially in the context of macrocytic anemia, is considered diagnostic for pernicious anemia. However, the presence of gastric PCAs alone is not specific for pernicious anemia, as they may occur more frequently in unaffected family members and individuals with other autoimmune diseases, such as autoimmune thyroiditis.
Special Instructions
This test is New York state approved. Ensure serum is separated from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection, and transfer to an ARUP standard transport tube. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles of the specimen.
Limitations
The presence of gastric parietal cell antibodies alone is not sufficient to diagnose pernicious anemia, as they may be present in people without the condition, including healthy individuals and those with other autoimmune diseases. Negative results do not rule out pernicious anemia.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 40960-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Urine or plasma. Contaminated, heat-inactivated, grossly hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |