Pernicious anaemia antibody checkIntrinsic Factor Antibodies Blood Test (Venous Collection Kit)
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Intrinsic Factor Antibodies Blood Test (Venous Collection Kit)

£99 ✓ In Stock

What's covered in the price: Laboratory-supplied test kit with sample collection materials and prepaid return packaging. Results turnaround varies by test — see the estimated turnaround time shown above.
Results ready within 5 working days

Your sample goes to a UKAS accredited laboratory meeting ISO 15189 standards.

Date of birth required

After you receive your order confirmation email, please reply with your date of birth.

Blood sample
Clinic visit
(phlebotomy charges apply)
CQC registered Accredited UK labs ISO 15189

How it works

Your testing journey

From order to results in four simple steps. Full transparency on where each step happens and what it costs.

1
Medi Test Direct kit delivered by post

Receive your kit by post

Dispatched same working day if ordered before 3pm. Royal Mail Tracked delivery, typically 1–3 working days. 90% of kits arrive within 24 hours.

2
Clinic sample collection

Visit a partner clinic

Book a phlebotomy appointment at one of our 365+ UK partner clinics. Take your kit with you — the phlebotomist will collect your sample using the materials provided.

Phlebotomy fee applies (paid at clinic)
3
Venous blood draw at a clinic

Venous blood draw at a clinic

A trained phlebotomist takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using the vacutainers provided in your kit. The appointment takes around 10 minutes.

4
Return sample by prepaid envelope

Return by prepaid envelope

Seal your sample in the biohazard bag provided and drop it in any Royal Mail postbox using the prepaid Tracked 24 envelope. Post Monday–Thursday for best results.

The Intrinsic Factor Antibodies Blood Test screens for autoantibodies that target intrinsic factor, a protein produced by the stomach that is essential for vitamin B12 absorption. When these antibodies are present, they can block intrinsic factor from binding to vitamin B12, preventing its absorption and leading to vitamin B12 deficiency. This is the hallmark of pernicious anaemia, an autoimmune condition that can cause serious health problems if left untreated.

This test is ideal for individuals experiencing symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency such as unexplained fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, pale skin, pins and needles or numbness in hands and feet, difficulty walking or balance problems, cognitive difficulties (brain fog), mood changes, or a sore red tongue. It is particularly valuable for those with anaemia of unknown cause, people with other autoimmune conditions, older adults with B12 deficiency, and anyone with a family history of pernicious anaemia.

What is covered in the price: Your test fee includes a venous blood collection kit, professional laboratory analysis at a UKAS accredited facility, and your detailed results. Because this test requires a venous blood draw, you will need to arrange collection with a qualified phlebotomist—either at a clinic near you or through your own arrangements. A phlebotomy fee may apply separately.

Venous Blood Collection Kit

This kit is sent to you and taken to your chosen clinic. The phlebotomist will collect your sample using the materials provided.

  1. 1Vacutainer blood collection tubes
  2. 2Needle and butterfly needle
  3. 3Tourniquet
  4. 4Alcohol swab
  5. 5Cotton wool and gauze
  6. 6Adhesive plaster
  7. 7Biohazard specimen bag
  8. 8Prepaid return envelope (Royal Mail Tracked 24)
  9. 9Laboratory request form
  10. 10Instructions for the phlebotomist
No Fasting Required: This test does not require fasting. You may eat and drink normally before your appointment. B12 Supplements and Injections: If you are currently receiving vitamin B12 injections or taking B12 supplements, you do not need to stop these before the test. However, please inform your healthcare provider about any B12 treatment when discussing your results. Clinical Context: This test is typically used alongside vitamin B12 levels, full blood count (FBC), and sometimes gastric parietal cell antibodies to help diagnose pernicious anaemia and guide appropriate treatment. Sample Return: Post your sample back on the same day it is collected, ideally on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday to avoid weekend delays.

Intrinsic factor is a glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells in your stomach lining. It is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 from the food you eat. Intrinsic factor binds to vitamin B12 in the stomach, and this complex then travels to the small intestine where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Intrinsic factor antibodies are autoantibodies produced by the immune system that target intrinsic factor. There are two types: blocking antibodies (which prevent intrinsic factor from binding to B12) and binding antibodies (which prevent the intrinsic factor-B12 complex from being absorbed). When these antibodies are present, vitamin B12 absorption is impaired, leading to deficiency. The presence of intrinsic factor antibodies is highly specific for pernicious anaemia, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the parietal cells and intrinsic factor. While only about 50-70% of people with pernicious anaemia test positive for intrinsic factor antibodies, a positive result is considered diagnostic for the condition. Pernicious anaemia, if untreated, can lead to megaloblastic anaemia (abnormally large red blood cells), neurological problems including peripheral neuropathy, cognitive impairment, and in severe cases, irreversible nerve damage. Early detection and treatment with vitamin B12 injections can prevent these complications. Pernicious anaemia is more common in people over 60, those with other autoimmune conditions (such as thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes, or vitiligo), and people of Northern European descent.

Medical Disclaimer

This test is for screening and information only — it is not a medical diagnosis or professional advice. Please have your results reviewed by a qualified doctor or healthcare provider who can explain what they mean for your personal health situation. If your results show anything outside the normal range, or if you're worried about your health, see your doctor as soon as you can. Don't change any medications or treatments based on these results alone — always talk to your healthcare provider first.

NO CLINICS, NO QUEUES, NO HASSLE

Four steps to clarity

Pick your panel 01

Pick your panel

Browse over 200 clinically designed test kits and choose the one that fits your goals.

Kit to your door 02

Kit to your door

Everything you need arrives in discreet packaging with step-by-step instructions inside.

Collect your sample 03

Collect your sample

Follow the simple instructions in your kit — whether it's a finger-prick at home or a venous draw at a partner clinic.

Insights delivered 04

Insights delivered

Clear, easy-to-understand results sent to you online with actionable health guidance.

Frequently asked questions

This test measures Intrinsic Factor Antibodies. Check the full biomarker list on this page for detailed descriptions of each marker and what it tells you about your health.

Check the Special Instructions section on this page. As a general rule, if the panel includes cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, or insulin, fast for 8-12 hours. For most hormone, vitamin, and antibody tests, fasting is not required. Morning collection (7-10am) is preferred.

Follow the instructions in your kit. For finger-prick tests: warm your hands, use the lancet as directed, fill the tube to the marked line. For venous tests: attend a phlebotomy clinic with your laboratory request form. Post your sample the same day — avoid Fridays and bank holidays.

Results are typically available within the timeframe shown on this page. You will receive a notification when ready to view online. Results include reference ranges and guidance.

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