Test Price
190 AED✅ Home Collection Available
Parietal Cell Antibody (IFA) Test in Dubai | 190 AED | DHA Licensed
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
Test Overview & Methodology
The Parietal Cell Antibody (IFA) test detects serum autoantibodies directed against the hydrogen‑potassium ATPase of gastric parietal cells. It is the gold standard serological marker for autoimmune metaplastic atrophic gastritis and its primary hematological sequela, pernicious anemia. The test is recommended by gastroenterologists for patients presenting with macrocytic anemia, unexplained vitamin B12 deficiency, or symptoms suggestive of gastric autoimmunity. The methodology employs indirect immunofluorescence on rodent stomach tissue sections, offering superior specificity over ELISA-based alternatives.
| Feature | Parietal Cell IFA Test | Closest Alternative (ELISA) |
|---|---|---|
| Methodology | Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) | Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) |
| Specificity | > 95% (Gold Standard) | 85% – 90% |
| Turnaround Time | Same Day (sample by 9 AM) | 2 – 3 Working Days |
| Price | 190 AED | 250 – 350 AED |
| Home Collection | VIP Cold-Chain Included | Often Not Available |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
"As a General Practitioner assessing patients with unexplained fatigue or macrocytic anemia, I view the Parietal Cell IFA test as a critical initial screening tool for autoimmune gastric pathology. However, a positive antibody result must be correlated with serum B12, homocysteine, and methylmalonic acid levels, alongside a comprehensive clinical history and upper gastrointestinal endoscopic evaluation with biopsy. A positive test alone does not confirm pernicious anemia; it identifies an immunological risk profile that requires structured longitudinal follow-up."
— Dr. Ajay Singh, General Practitioner, DHA Registration ID: 36234132
Pre-Test Preparation & Collection Guidelines
Advisory Notes for Patients
- Overnight fasting of 8–12 hours is strongly recommended to reduce lipemic interference and ensure optimal immunofluorescence clarity.
- A single 2 mL serum sample is collected via SST (serum separator tube).
- Sample should be transported refrigerated (2–8°C) or frozen (-20°C) for delayed processing.
- Inform your physician of any recent immunoglobulin therapy, blood transfusions, or immunosuppressive medications, as these may impact test accuracy.
Exclusion Criteria and Clinical Red Flags
Medical Contraindications & Safety Warnings
- Any immunoglobulin or plasma product administration within the last two weeks may interfere with IFA binding and produce ambiguous results.
- Patients with known severe combined immunodeficiency or hypogammaglobulinemia may yield false-negative autoantibody readings.
- ER Red Flags: The following symptoms require immediate emergency medical attention regardless of test results: sudden chest pain, severe shortness of breath, acute confusion, syncope, or signs of stroke.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What does the Parietal Cell Antibody IFA test detect?
The test detects IgG autoantibodies directed against the alpha and beta subunits of the gastric hydrogen‑potassium ATPase (proton pump). These autoantibodies are the primary serological hallmark of autoimmune metaplastic atrophic gastritis, the precursor condition to pernicious anemia. The IFA method provides high specificity and pattern recognition that distinguishes this autoantibody from other gastrointestinal markers.
2. How should I prepare for the test?
An 8–12 hour overnight fast is recommended to minimize lipemic serum interference that can obscure the immunofluorescence reading. No other specific preparation is required. Continue all prescribed medications unless explicitly instructed otherwise by your referring physician.
3. What does a positive result indicate for my health?
A positive result indicates the presence of circulating autoantibodies targeting your gastric parietal cells. This suggests an autoimmune process is affecting the acid-producing and intrinsic factor-secreting cells of your stomach lining. It does not in itself diagnose pernicious anemia; confirmatory tests include serum vitamin B12, holotranscobalamin, and gastric biopsy. Your gastroenterologist will integrate these findings with your symptoms and endoscopy to determine an appropriate treatment plan, which may include B12 supplementation and surveillance for gastric dysplasia.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
Data Privacy & Health Information Governance
This diagnostic service and its associated digital health platform operate in full compliance with the following UAE federal legislative instruments:
- Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 – Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL): governs the collection, processing, and storage of patient personal data.
- Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 – Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields: establishes cybersecurity standards for health information exchanges.
- Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 – On Medical Liability: defines the clinical safety and informed consent requirements for diagnostic testing.
All patient data is encrypted in transit and at rest. Access controls follow the principle of least privilege. Results are delivered through a secure, auditable chain of custody.
Laboratory Accreditation: ISO 9001:2015 (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139). Corporate Lab: DNA Labs UAE.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | Parietal Cell Antibody (IFA) Test |
| Price (AED) | 190 AED |
| Turnaround Time | Same Day (sample by 9 AM) |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Serum (2 mL, SST Tube) |
| Methodology Used | Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) |
| ICD-10-CM Code | Z01.84, D51.0 |
| LOINC Code | 6020-9 |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | DHA License: 1143, Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE |
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