Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody
Specialistalso apca
What it isAutoantibodies targeting the parietal cells of the stomach lining, which produce acid and intrinsic factor needed for B12 absorption.
DoesMarks autoimmune atrophic gastritis, which destroys parietal cells over time.
GoodNegative result argues against autoimmune gastritis.
BadPositive APCA flags autoimmune gastritis, which leads to B12 deficiency, iron deficiency, and increased gastric cancer risk over decades.
How to optimize
- Lifestyle
- —
- Diet
- B12-rich animal foods.
- Supplements
- B12 (oral high-dose or injections), iron if deficient.
- Peptides
- —
- Drugs
- Lifetime B12 injections may be needed.
within Autoimmune