Testing options

[Bates2587]

I have convinced my dad to do proper tests for PA/b12 deficiency. I showed him the viapath website which he would be up for using this. At the moment on the viapath it's says the viapath postal service is stopped.

I know medichecks does Mma, or homocysteine or PA package but I don't think this appeals to him and it doesn't include everything that is useful in my opinion.

Any suggestions? I think he would rather not fight the gp over this and go for the easier option to test privately. He's inpatient like me.

[wedgewood]

I’m afraid there is no 100% sure way to test for Pernicious Anaemia . It is thought by many doctors that the Intrinsic Factor Antibody test is a certain method, but it isn’t . About 50% of P.A. patients test negative with this test . The blood serum test can also be misleading as it can measure the presence of inactive B12 as well as active. Some doctors think that P.A. is revealed by enlarged red corpuscles — also not true. Really , symptoms are the most important clue to diagnosing P.A./ b12 deficiency ( you can look them all up — they are varied and numerous . ) If these symptoms are not alleviated by oral supplementation , then P.A. should be suspected and treated with B12 loading injections , and then b12 injections given at intervals that prevent the return of those symptoms .

[Nackapan]

It may well be useful before any supplements to get a b12 level done along with folate and iron. You Gp I'm sure will do this.

The problems usually arise with treatment.

[fbirder]

I would, if possible, opt for a package that included B12, MMA (or homocysteine) and gastrin. This place advertise all three for a total of £265, but requires a trip to Harley Street in London. So not really on at the moment. medicalexpressclinic.co.uk/...

Gastrin is never listed as a blood test for PA, but it's one of the best.

If you have PA then it's likely that you have low stomach acid. And low stomach acid will cause high levels of gastrin. In combination with low B12 it's a very good sign of PA.

[Bates2587 in reply to fbirder]

That's interesting. Gastrin is a blood test or where they monitor your stomach acid via a fishing rod down your nose?

I used to have Proton pump inhibitors briefly as I said to my doctor it feels like my food never digests and sits there. I bend over to tie up my shoe laces and it's feels like the food is trying to escape. It's a lot better now. That was over a decade ago. I do have terrible belching (very attractive lady you see). Even a cup of tea will send my off. Every thing I consume just starts it off. Even a bit of water. My boyfriend is a lucky guy!

[fbirder in reply to Bates2587]

The gastrin test is a blood test.

High levels of gastrin can be caused by low stomach acid, or a type of tumour (which is pretty rare). So taking PPIs can raise gastrin levels.

[Sleepybunny in reply to fbirder]

Hi,

Can you recommend some articles on gastrin levels...I'm trying to help someone who has had above range results...no follow up tests...in fact no interest at all from GP.

Thanks