What is the Gastric Parietal Autoantibodies Test?

The Gastric Parietal Autoantibodies test detects antibodies directed against parietal cells in the stomach lining. These cells are responsible for producing hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor, both essential for digestion and vitamin B12 absorption.

When the immune system attacks parietal cells, gastric acid production is reduced and intrinsic factor may be impaired. Over time, this can lead to autoimmune gastritis and vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially progressing to pernicious anaemia if untreated.

This test is widely used in the investigation of unexplained anaemia, neurological symptoms and chronic gastrointestinal complaints.

Why do I need a test for Gastric Parietal Autoantibodies?

You may need this test if there is suspicion of autoimmune gastritis or unexplained vitamin B12 deficiency. Autoimmune damage to parietal cells often develops gradually and may go undetected for years.

Identifying these antibodies early allows appropriate monitoring, supplementation and prevention of long-term complications such as irreversible nerve damage or severe anaemia.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Pernicious anaemia suspicion
• Chronic fatigue or weakness
• Numbness or tingling in hands and feet
• Memory or concentration difficulties
• Digestive discomfort or bloating
• Abnormal blood counts
• Family history of autoimmune disease

Benefits of the Gastric Parietal Autoantibodies Test

• Identifies autoimmune gastritis
  Detects immune-mediated stomach lining damage.
• Supports diagnosis of pernicious anaemia
  Key marker in autoimmune B12 deficiency.
• Explains unexplained vitamin B12 deficiency
  Helps identify malabsorption causes.
• Prevents long-term neurological damage
  Enables early intervention and supplementation.
• Guides appropriate treatment strategies
  Supports long-term monitoring and care.
• Complements intrinsic factor testing
  Improves diagnostic accuracy when used together.
• Useful in unexplained anaemia investigation
  Adds clarity beyond routine blood tests.
• Simple and informative blood test
  Requires only a standard blood sample.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Choose your preferred testing method

You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is analysed for gastric parietal cell antibodies.
4. Results are delivered securely online.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
3. The sample is transported to the laboratory.
4. Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.

Your Results Explained

Negative Result

No gastric parietal cell antibodies detected.
This makes autoimmune gastritis less likely, though early disease cannot be fully excluded.

Low / Borderline Levels

Low antibody levels may indicate early or mild autoimmune activity.
Monitoring and correlation with vitamin B12 levels may be advised.

Positive Result

Detectable antibodies suggest autoimmune gastritis and increased risk of pernicious anaemia.
Results are interpreted alongside vitamin B12, intrinsic factor antibodies and clinical findings.