Question 1

What is Atrophic Gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Atrophic gastritis is a chronic inflammatory condition where the stomach lining becomes thin due to the loss of gastric glandular cells. It is caused by autoimmune antibodies that attack the stomach's parietal cells, which produce stomach acid and intrinsic factor needed for vitamin B12 absorption. The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test is the most important test for diagnosis because it confirms autoimmune gastritis and explains B12 deficiency.

Question 2

What causes atrophic gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Atrophic gastritis is caused by autoimmune antibodies that attack the parietal cells in your stomach lining. These parietal cells normally produce stomach acid and intrinsic factor, a protein you need to absorb vitamin B12. When antibodies damage these cells over time, the stomach lining becomes thin and inflamed, losing its ability to function properly. In some cases, chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria can also lead to atrophic gastritis, though the autoimmune form is more common in developed countries.

Question 3

What is the best test for atrophic gastritis?

Accepted Answer

The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test is the most important test for atrophic gastritis because it specifically detects the antibodies that block intrinsic factor, confirming autoimmune gastritis and explaining why B12 deficiency develops. The Parietal Cell Antibody test is also essential as it identifies antibodies attacking the stomach's acid-producing cells, helping diagnose the autoimmune cause. Additionally, the Gastrin test measures elevated gastrin levels that occur when your damaged stomach lining produces less acid, and the Vitamin B12 test monitors deficiency levels to prevent serious complications like pernicious anemia and nerve damage. Together, these tests provide a complete picture of your stomach function and autoimmune status.

Question 4

When should I get tested for atrophic 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 B12 deficiency. Get tested if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases or pernicious anemia, as atrophic gastritis runs in families. You should also consider testing if you have other autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease or type 1 diabetes, since autoimmune gastritis often occurs alongside these disorders. Early testing is important because B12 deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage if left untreated.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of atrophic gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Atrophic gastritis often develops slowly and many people have no symptoms in the early stages. As the condition progresses, you might experience fatigue, weakness, and pale skin due to anemia from B12 deficiency. You may notice digestive symptoms like loss of appetite, nausea, weight loss, or a feeling of fullness after eating small amounts. Neurological symptoms can develop including numbness or tingling in your hands and feet, difficulty walking, memory problems, and mood changes. Some people experience a sore or smooth tongue, and you might have difficulty absorbing other nutrients beyond B12.

Question 6

Who is at risk for atrophic gastritis?

Accepted Answer

You are at higher risk for atrophic gastritis if you have other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, thyroid disorders, or vitiligo. People with a family history of pernicious anemia or autoimmune gastritis have increased risk since the condition has a genetic component. The condition is more common in people of Northern European or Scandinavian descent and typically develops in middle age or older adults, though it can occur at any age. Women are more likely to develop autoimmune atrophic gastritis than men. If you have chronic Helicobacter pylori infection, you also have increased risk of developing the non-autoimmune form of atrophic gastritis.

Question 7

What happens if atrophic gastritis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated atrophic gastritis leads to severe vitamin B12 deficiency, causing pernicious anemia with extreme fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. B12 deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage resulting in numbness, difficulty walking, memory loss, confusion, and even dementia. The lack of stomach acid increases your risk of stomach infections and can lead to malabsorption of other nutrients like iron and calcium. Long-term atrophic gastritis significantly increases your risk of developing stomach cancer, with some studies showing up to a six-fold increased risk. You may also develop stomach polyps and carcinoid tumors due to chronically elevated gastrin levels. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent these serious complications.

Question 8

Can atrophic gastritis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are fundamental for diagnosing atrophic gastritis and are often the first step before endoscopy. The Intrinsic Factor Blocking Antibody test and Parietal Cell Antibody test can confirm the autoimmune cause of the condition. Blood tests measuring gastrin levels help assess the severity of stomach function loss, with elevated levels indicating reduced acid production. Vitamin B12 testing identifies deficiency that commonly occurs with atrophic gastritis. While an endoscopy with biopsy provides visual confirmation of the thinned stomach lining, blood tests are essential for identifying the autoimmune cause, monitoring complications, and tracking treatment effectiveness.

Question 9

How is atrophic gastritis treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for atrophic gastritis focuses on managing complications and replacing deficient nutrients rather than reversing the stomach lining damage. You will need lifelong vitamin B12 supplementation, usually through monthly injections or high-dose oral supplements, since your stomach cannot absorb B12 normally. Your doctor may prescribe iron supplements if you develop iron deficiency anemia. Regular monitoring with blood tests is essential to ensure your B12 levels remain adequate and to check for other nutritional deficiencies. If you have Helicobacter pylori infection, antibiotic treatment to eradicate the bacteria is important. You will need regular endoscopic surveillance every few years to monitor for stomach cancer and other complications. Some doctors may recommend treatment for elevated gastrin levels if they become very high.

Question 10

How can I prevent atrophic gastritis?

Accepted Answer

Since autoimmune atrophic gastritis is caused by your immune system attacking your own stomach cells, there is no known way to prevent the autoimmune form. However, you can reduce your risk of the non-autoimmune form by getting tested and treated for Helicobacter pylori infection if present. If you have a family history of autoimmune gastritis or pernicious anemia, regular screening with blood tests can help detect the condition early before serious complications develop. Maintaining overall immune system health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding smoking may help reduce autoimmune disease risk in general. Once diagnosed, working closely with your doctor to manage the condition and prevent complications is the best approach.

Question 11

What can I do at home for atrophic gastritis?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot reverse atrophic gastritis at home, you can support your treatment and manage symptoms effectively. Take your B12 supplements or get your B12 injections as prescribed by your doctor without missing doses. Eat small, frequent meals that are easier to digest, and focus on nutrient-dense foods to maximize absorption of vitamins and minerals. Avoid foods that irritate your stomach like spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine. Consider taking a high-quality multivitamin to help prevent other nutritional deficiencies, but discuss this with your doctor first. Keep a food diary to identify any foods that worsen your symptoms. Stay hydrated and manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can worsen digestive symptoms. Most importantly, attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and blood tests to monitor your condition and catch any complications early.

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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                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
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                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
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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.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            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.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

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.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
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            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            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.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
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            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

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!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
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            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Atrophic Gastritis Blood Test

What is Atrophic Gastritis?

What causes atrophic gastritis?

What is the best test for atrophic gastritis?

When should I get tested for atrophic gastritis?

References

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