Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody
Also known as: IFBA
Use
The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test is used in the diagnostic evaluation of patients suspected of having pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition characterized by vitamin B12 deficiency due to the presence of antibodies against intrinsic factor, a protein essential for vitamin B12 absorption. The detection of these antibodies can aid in confirming the diagnosis and differentiating from other causes of vitamin B12 deficiency, guiding appropriate treatment and management strategies for affected individuals.
Special Instructions
Patients should ideally be prepared for serum collection using a serum separator tube or plain red tube. The serum must then be transferred to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube, with a required volume of at least 0.15 mL for accurate analysis. It is imperative to ensure that grossly hemolyzed or severely lipemic specimens are avoided as these can lead to sample rejection.
Limitations
This assay is qualitative and may not detect all cases of intrinsic factor antibodies, especially in individuals with low titers. Factors such as improper sample handling, presence of interfering substances, or inappropriate specimen type may lead to false-negative or false-positive results. The results of the test should be considered in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests, as the presence of intrinsic factor blocking antibodies is not the sole determinant for diagnosing pernicious anemia.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 9537-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.15 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Use a serum separator tube or plain red tube for collection; transfer serum to the transport tube.
Causes for Rejection
Grossly hemolyzed or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 8 hours |
| Refrigerated | 48 hours |
| Frozen | 1 month |