Intrinsic Factor Antibodies Blood Test

This test checks whether you have antibodies to intrinsic factor in your blood. These antibodies can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency and eventually pernicious anaemia, an autoimmune condition. If your intrinsic factor antibody levels are raised, you may need further tests to confirm your diagnosis, such as gastric parietal cell antibodies, vitamin B12 and MMA levels, and a full blood count to check for anaemia. Please note that titre levels are only provided for positive results.

Pernicious anaemia causes a deficiency in vitamin B12, an essential water-soluble vitamin found in virtually all meat products and certain algae, such as seaweed. It helps maintain healthy nerve and red blood cells and is required to make DNA, the genetic material in all cells. Symptoms of pernicious anaemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, brittle nails, pins and needles, and cognitive difficulties (brain fog). Symptoms of pernicious anaemia can become debilitating and cause lasting damage if not caught early enough. Pernicious anaemia can be treated by regular vitamin B12 injections.

Intrinsic factor is a glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells in your stomach - and it is necessary to absorb vitamin B12 from the food you eat. Interference in the production or the activity of intrinsic factor can reduce vitamin B12 being absorbed in the small bowel, resulting in anaemia.