Anti Parietal Cell Antibody (Apca) in Hadapsar, Pune

Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Screening Test: Price, Purpose, Range & Report Interpretation

The Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Screening Test is a specialised blood test used to detect antibodies that attack the parietal cells lining the stomach. These cells are responsible for producing intrinsic factor and gastric acid, which are crucial for vitamin B12 absorption and digestion. When the immune system mistakenly targets these cells, it can lead to autoimmune gastritis and pernicious anaemia, two major conditions associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, fatigue, and nerve damage. This test helps doctors identify autoimmune causes of anaemia, unexplained fatigue, and gastrointestinal disorders. It also supports the diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency that is not caused by poor diet or malabsorption. If you are searching for an “anti-parietal cell antibody test near me”, Apollo 24|7 offers simple online booking, convenient home sample collection, and digital report access across India. Here’s a complete guide explaining the price, purpose, preparation, and interpretation of the APCA Screening Test.

What is the Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Screening Test?

The APCA Screening Test is a blood-based immunological test that measures the presence of autoantibodies directed against parietal cells in the stomach lining. These antibodies are often found in individuals suffering from autoimmune gastritis or pernicious anaemia. The test helps in detecting autoimmune destruction of parietal cells, which leads to decreased secretion of gastric acid and intrinsic factor, ultimately resulting in poor vitamin B12 absorption. Since parietal cell antibodies can appear years before symptoms develop, this test serves as an early marker of autoimmune stomach disorders. It is also helpful in monitoring individuals with other autoimmune diseases (such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or type 1 diabetes), where the risk of gastric autoimmunity is higher.

Why is the Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Test Recommended?

Doctors recommend this test for individuals who show symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, anaemia, or chronic digestive discomfort. It helps in the early detection and differentiation of autoimmune causes of gastric inflammation. The APCA test serves several key purposes:

1. To Detect Autoimmune Gastritis

When the immune system produces antibodies against parietal cells, it leads to chronic inflammation and gradual destruction of the stomach lining. This condition impairs the stomach’s ability to produce acid and intrinsic factor, resulting in vitamin B12 deficiency.

2. To Diagnose Pernicious Anaemia

Pernicious anaemia is a serious form of anaemia caused by the loss of intrinsic factor due to autoimmune damage. The APCA test, along with intrinsic factor antibody testing, helps confirm the diagnosis.

3. To Identify Vitamin B12 Deficiency Causes

Vitamin B12 deficiency may occur even in individuals with sufficient dietary intake if absorption is impaired. The APCA test helps determine whether an autoimmune mechanism is responsible for the deficiency.

4. To Monitor Autoimmune Disorders

Patients with autoimmune thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes, or Addison’s disease may also test positive for anti-parietal cell antibodies. Regular monitoring helps assess the risk of gastric complications.

5. To Evaluate Unexplained Fatigue or Weakness

If common causes of fatigue, anaemia, or neurological symptoms have been ruled out, the APCA test helps detect underlying autoimmune activity affecting vitamin absorption.

Common Symptoms That May Lead to This Test

Your doctor may recommend the APCA Screening Test if you experience:

•    Persistent fatigue or weakness
•    Pale or yellowish skin tone
•    Shortness of breath or dizziness
•    Loss of appetite or bloating
•    Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
•    Memory issues or concentration problems
•    Burning sensation on the tongue or mouth ulcers
•    Unexplained vitamin B12 deficiency despite normal diet
These symptoms may indicate impaired gastric function due to autoimmune destruction of parietal cells.

What is the Test Price of Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA)?

The price of an APCA test varies depending on several factors such as:

•    City or Region: Prices differ across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
•    Lab Accreditation: NABL-accredited laboratories ensure precise and reliable results.
•    Health Packages: This test is sometimes included in anaemia, autoimmune, or vitamin deficiency panels.
•    Discounts and Offers: Apollo 24|7 frequently provides health check-up discounts and seasonal wellness offers.
To know the latest cost and offers, visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app and search for “Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody Screening Test.”

Purpose of the APCA Screening Test

The primary purpose of the test is to detect autoimmune antibodies that target stomach cells and lead to gastric damage and vitamin B12 deficiency. Key objectives include:

•    Detecting autoimmune gastritis and pernicious anaemia.
•    Assessing the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency not related to dietary intake.
•    Supporting diagnosis of megaloblastic anaemia.
•    Monitoring patients with known autoimmune diseases.
•    Evaluating unexplained fatigue, nerve problems, or digestive issues.

Who Should Get the APCA Screening Test?

You may need this test if:

•    You have low vitamin B12 levels or anaemia of unknown cause.
•    You experience symptoms of neuropathy, numbness, or tingling.
•    You have a family history of autoimmune disease.
•    You suffer from autoimmune thyroid disease, diabetes, or Addison’s disease.
•    You are on long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or have chronic gastritis.
•    Your doctor suspects pernicious anaemia or autoimmune gastritis.

What Does the Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody Test Measure?

The Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Test is designed to detect antibodies that target the parietal cells lining the stomach. These cells are responsible for producing intrinsic factor and gastric acid, both essential for vitamin B12 absorption and digestive health. Measuring APCA levels helps identify autoimmune conditions such as pernicious anaemia or chronic atrophic gastritis. Below is an overview of the test parameter and its interpretation:

Note: Reference ranges may vary depending on laboratory method and assay technique.

Interpretation of APCA Test Results

The APCA test report helps determine whether autoimmune antibodies are present in the blood.

1. Negative Result:

No antibodies detected. Autoimmune gastritis or pernicious anaemia is unlikely.

2. Positive (Low Titre):

May indicate early or mild autoimmune gastritis. Follow-up testing (such as intrinsic factor antibodies and vitamin B12 levels) may be required.

3. Positive (High Titre):

Suggests active autoimmune destruction of parietal cells. The patient may already have developed vitamin B12 deficiency or pernicious anaemia.

Interpretation should always be correlated with:

•    Vitamin B12 and folate levels
•    Complete Blood Count (CBC)
•    Intrinsic factor antibody test
•    Clinical symptoms

Associated Tests

If your APCA results are abnormal, your doctor may recommend:
•    Intrinsic Factor Antibody Test: To confirm pernicious anaemia.
•    Vitamin B12 and Folate Tests: To assess nutritional status.
•    CBC Test: To detect anaemia or large red blood cells (macrocytosis).
•    Thyroid Function Tests: To rule out associated autoimmune thyroid disease.
•    Gastric Biopsy: In certain cases to confirm gastric mucosal damage.

Preparation and Procedure for the Test

The Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Test is a simple blood test that requires minimal preparation and provides valuable information about autoimmune activity in the stomach. It helps detect antibodies that may interfere with vitamin B12 absorption and gastric function. Following the correct preparation and understanding the procedure ensures accurate and reliable results. Here’s what to expect before and during the test:
Preparation
•    Fasting: Not required; you may eat normally before the test.
•    Medication: Inform your doctor about medications, especially those that affect the stomach (e.g., PPIs).
•    Lifestyle: No specific restrictions, but avoid alcohol 24 hours before testing for accurate results.
Procedure
1.    A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle.
2.    The sample is collected into a labelled test tube and sent to the laboratory.
3.    Laboratory analysis is performed using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) or Indirect Immunofluorescence (IIF) methods.
4.    Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours.
These techniques detect and quantify antibodies against parietal cells with high accuracy.

How Often Should You Take the Test?

•    Diagnostic Use: Once, when symptoms or deficiency are detected.
•    Monitoring: Every 6 to 12 months if diagnosed with autoimmune gastritis or pernicious anaemia.
•    Follow-Up: As advised by your doctor to track treatment response and antibody levels.

Booking the APCA Test Online & Accessing Reports

Booking your Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Screening Test on Apollo 24|7 is easy and convenient.

Steps to Book Online:

1.    Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or mobile app.
2.    Go to the “Lab Tests” section.
3.    Search for “Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Screening Test.”
4.    Choose a convenient date and time for home sample collection.
5.    Select a date and time slot, apply any available offers, and complete secure payment.

Accessing Reports:

1.    Log in to your Apollo 24|7 account.
2.    Navigate to “Health Records” → “Reports.”
3.    Download or view your test report in PDF format.
4.    Share it digitally with your doctor for review.
Reports are typically available within 24–48 hours after sample collection.

Conclusion

The Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody (APCA) Screening Test is a vital diagnostic tool for identifying autoimmune gastritis and pernicious anaemia - two major causes of vitamin B12 deficiency. It helps detect antibodies that damage the stomach’s parietal cells, impairing acid and intrinsic factor production. Early diagnosis through this test enables timely treatment, preventing anaemia, neurological problems, and chronic fatigue. With Apollo 24|7, you can easily book the APCA test online, opt for home sample collection, and access digital reports within 48 hours. Regular monitoring and medical guidance can help maintain healthy vitamin B12 levels, protect digestive health, and ensure overall well-being.