Testing Intrinsic Factor and others

[Shashapoo]

Can you test for intrinsic factor while on supplementation? I also have had redux and burning for several years and wonder if the PA test will also be accurate? I have several autoimmune issues...RA, gluten intolerant, hashimotos thyroid diagnosed on pathological report, but antibody test now was fine. Burning achy feet with cramps and tendonitis and synovitis, occasional low platelets, heart palpitations that started after Doctor stopped my B12. Now severe malaise...I've never had IF done....started myself back on sublinqual 2500 mcg, but still not feeling well. Thoughts and suggestions please...my level was 2000 the reason it was stopped against my questions...getting new Doctor soon, but need to know about testing! Thanks so much!

[clivealive Forum Support]

Hi Shashapoo a wiser person than I has posted previously:

"Times for testing

Taking supplements that contain B12 will affect any tests ordered by your doctor to assess your B12 status. You should not take any supplement with B12 before having your B12 assessed (including MMA/homocysteine/Active B12).

For testing intrinsic factor antibodies: keep one week between an injection and the test".

Has your Folate level been checked?

I am not a medically trained person.

[Shashapoo in reply to clivealive]

Yes, it was within normal limits. If my level of b12 was 2000, am I absorbing anything? My original level of b12 years ago was 168, mma high and homocysteine low...no one has done proper follow up and now I am worried and have no faith in current MD

[Shashapoo in reply to Shashapoo]

And I take sublingual!

[clivealive Forum Support in reply to Shashapoo]

If you ask to be tested for intrinsic factor antibodies (IFA) you will need to stop taking the sublingual B12 a week or so before.

Sadly the IFA test is unreliable in that it gives false negatives in people with PA half the time. So a negative result doesn't mean that you don't have PA. However, a positive result is a sure-fire, 95% certain indicator of PA.

The serum B12 test only shows what is swirling around in the bloodstream not what is getting into the cells which may explain your high level of 2000 yet still having neurological symptoms.

Please remember that I'm not medically trained.

[KimberinUS]

have you been tested for h pylori?

classic symptom is heartburn and KNOWN to cause b12 deficiency.