My GP is well aware of the family history, just not interested
I filled out the B12 deficiency check list on the PA website, 9 of the 5 points were ticked, technically all 3 or the 2 points (although I've had tinnitus since I was 12 due to chlorinated swimming pools), and a goodly number of the 1 pointers.
Do I take it the antibody test is a specific test? I've only ever had the full blood count (and rarely giver more than 'you're B12 is a bit low'. You have to ask for the numbers.
Is Glandular Fever connected to B12? Had that when I was 17 and never really got over it
There are two tests for antibodies associated with PA - but neither of them is particularly accurate - PCA is generally no longer recommended as a test because the results are so erratic and complicated to interpret - IFA is frequently done and people are told that it is negative so they don't have PA when infact the test is only at best 50% accurate - and in reality getting a positive result is the only one that really means anything.
I know my Grandmother had a lumber puncture and it didn't do her any good at all. My Dad said she used to have to carry a bucket round with her because the PA was so bad she couldn't keep any food down.
I don't think I have got PA. I did have trouble with my stomach a couple of years ago but it's been pretty stable for the last year.
I was given omeprazole to calm it, whether that did anything to my B12 I don't know.
"but how the hell do you get a test out of your GP?"
In the past I have shown GPs lists of my symptoms especially those that are neurological in nature as the treatment for B12 deficiency with neuro symptoms is more intensive.
I have also shown GPs current articles and research.
1) Has your GP looked at the advice in the BNF (British national formulary) . The info on b12 defic. is in Chapter 9 Section 1.2. All Gps will have access to the BNF. I believe members of the public can subscribe but not sure what it costs. You can also buy a copy.
Google "BCSH CObalamin and Folate Guidelines" A lengthy document but well worth reading. I found page 29 useful, a diagnosis flowchart. There ia a summary of this document inthe PAS library section.
I'm a bit tired today but if you look on my recent posts there is more info.
If any doubt treat it as a B12D. You can't overdose. It is water soluble and you might just get an energy burst.
It is nice to know if you have PA but don't waste time trying to figure that out if you are already exhibiting neurological symptoms. The cost of delaying treatment are very severe.
I have had numbness but I have a big problem with my back. My legs have been numb for all but 2 weeks since December. I don't really know whether it is causing all the burning/prickling, or if it is something else.
My GP sent me to see a neurologist, who sent me for an MRI. Lesions and demyelination showed and he sent me to an MS neuro.
Trouble is the first neuro didn't believe that I'd had a scan back in 2002 which probably showed the same amount, due to optic neuritis. I understand that can be connected to B12D.
Anyway, I had a copy of the letter the MS sent to the first neuro, he said it's most likely spinal. Whether that means the issue I have or something else I don't know.
Thank you for posting this petition Snuffle. I've signed and sent it on to my MP with a letter and the latest questions in the House of Lords, not that I'm hopeful it will do any good. I'll probably get a 5 page answer from Jeremy Hunt as before re. thyroid treatment with T3 - full of b...s and gobbleygook .
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B12 deficiency not treated
To increase or not
Is it still B12 symptoms or something else? 
B12 Level 167ng and not being treated
Is 103 not low enough?
