My doctor told me I’m low in B12 (my level was 114) and I’ve just finished the 2 week course of 6 shots. I’ve also had a second blood test to test for intrinsic factor antibodies and parietal cell antibodies but my nurse was less than clear as to what this means but she did say it’s not diet related and I need to have the three monthly shots for the rest of my life.
I’m hoping that someone would be able to help me understand the test results so I am more informed next time I go the GP.
The IFAB result doesn't mean much. If you did have Pernicious Anaemia then there's a 50% chance of getting a negative result.
The GPCAB test means that you probably don't have PA. The test isn't normally used because it gives too many false positives. But false negatives are unusual.
However, inthe absence of any obvious cause for low B12 (being vegetarian/vegan, taking PPIs or metformin, abusing nitrous oxide, etc.) it's best to assume that it is PA and to treat accordingly - injections forever.
Thanks for your reply - that makes sense. I assumed that if it wasn’t diet related it was likely to be PA but was confused by the results. Didn’t realise the tests might not give solid results!
I am in the same situation .Level Was106. Tests came back as negative. Eat meat and a good diet. I got nasty neurological symptoms that did get worse before most going. I still haven't a reason for the absorbtion problem. They don't seem to be worried as the treatment they say the same. When it's your own health it is good to know though. Hope you are feeling alot better and manage okay on the regime you are given. Is it every 2 or 3 Months?
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