Question 1

What is Autoimmune Gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune gastritis is a chronic inflammatory condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the stomach lining. It is caused by antibodies that target parietal cells and intrinsic factor, proteins essential for producing stomach acid and absorbing vitamin B12. The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test is the most important test for diagnosis because it specifically identifies the autoimmune attack that leads to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Question 2

What causes autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune gastritis is caused by antibodies that attack the stomach lining, specifically targeting parietal cells and intrinsic factor. Parietal cells produce stomach acid and intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for vitamin B12 absorption. When your immune system mistakenly attacks these cells, it leads to chronic inflammation, reduced stomach acid production, and eventually vitamin B12 deficiency and pernicious anemia.

Question 3

What is the best test for autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test is the most important test for autoimmune gastritis because it specifically detects antibodies that attack intrinsic factor, the protein needed for vitamin B12 absorption. This test is highly specific for autoimmune gastritis and helps confirm the diagnosis. The Parietal Cell Antibody ELISA is another essential test that identifies antibodies against the stomach cells that produce acid, confirming the autoimmune attack on your stomach lining. Together, these blood tests definitively diagnose autoimmune gastritis and distinguish it from other types of gastritis.

Question 4

When should I get tested for autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue, weakness, or numbness and tingling in your hands and feet, which are signs of vitamin B12 deficiency. Testing is also important if you have unexplained anemia that does not improve with iron supplements, digestive symptoms like loss of appetite or nausea, or if you have other autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease or type 1 diabetes. Early detection helps prevent serious complications like pernicious anemia and neurological damage from B12 deficiency.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune gastritis often develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in early stages. As the condition progresses, you might experience fatigue and weakness from vitamin B12 deficiency and anemia, loss of appetite and unintentional weight loss, nausea or upper abdominal discomfort, and neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, or balance problems. Some people also notice a sore or burning tongue, pale skin, and difficulty concentrating or memory problems related to B12 deficiency.

Question 6

Who is at risk for autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune gastritis is more common in people of Northern European descent and those with a family history of the condition. You have a higher risk if you have other autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes, vitiligo, or Addison disease. Women are affected more often than men, and the condition typically appears in middle age or later. Having pernicious anemia or unexplained vitamin B12 deficiency also suggests possible autoimmune gastritis.

Question 7

What happens if autoimmune gastritis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated autoimmune gastritis leads to severe vitamin B12 deficiency and pernicious anemia, causing extreme fatigue, neurological damage, and irreversible nerve problems. The chronic inflammation causes stomach lining atrophy, which significantly increases your risk of developing gastric carcinoid tumors and stomach cancer. You may also develop iron deficiency anemia due to reduced stomach acid needed for iron absorption. Early diagnosis and treatment with vitamin B12 supplementation prevents these serious complications and protects your long-term health.

Question 8

Can autoimmune gastritis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, autoimmune gastritis can be definitively diagnosed with specific blood tests that detect antibodies against stomach cells. The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test and Parietal Cell Antibody test identify the autoimmune attack on your stomach lining without requiring invasive procedures. These blood tests are highly accurate for diagnosing autoimmune gastritis and distinguishing it from other causes of gastritis. Your doctor may also order vitamin B12 and iron levels to assess nutritional deficiencies resulting from the condition.

Question 9

How is autoimmune gastritis treated?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune gastritis is treated primarily with vitamin B12 supplementation to prevent or correct deficiency and pernicious anemia. You may receive B12 injections initially, followed by oral supplements or ongoing injections depending on severity. Iron supplementation may be needed if you have iron deficiency anemia. Regular monitoring with blood tests checks your B12 and iron levels, and periodic endoscopy screenings monitor your stomach lining for precancerous changes. While the autoimmune process cannot be stopped, proper supplementation prevents complications and maintains your health.

Question 10

How can I prevent autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Autoimmune gastritis cannot be prevented because it results from an immune system malfunction rather than lifestyle factors. However, if you have risk factors like other autoimmune conditions or a family history, early detection through antibody testing allows for prompt treatment before serious complications develop. Regular check-ups and monitoring your B12 levels help catch the condition early. Once diagnosed, consistent vitamin B12 supplementation and regular medical follow-up prevent complications like pernicious anemia and neurological damage.

Question 11

What can I do at home for autoimmune gastritis?

Accepted Answer

At home, focus on taking your prescribed vitamin B12 and iron supplements consistently to prevent deficiency complications. Eat a nutrient-rich diet with foods high in B12 like eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals, though supplements remain essential since your stomach cannot absorb B12 properly. Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking, which further damage the stomach lining. Keep track of your symptoms and energy levels, and attend regular medical appointments for monitoring. While home measures support your overall health, medical treatment with B12 supplementation is essential for managing autoimmune gastritis.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
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Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
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            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
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Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
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            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
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Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
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Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
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Autoimmune Gastritis Blood Test

What is Autoimmune Gastritis?

What causes autoimmune gastritis?

What is the best test for autoimmune gastritis?

When should I get tested for autoimmune gastritis?

References

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