Multiple choice

Intrinsic factor (IF) is a protein produced by the parietal cells of the stomach. Which of the following statements about intrinsic factor autoantibodies is true?

  1. They are found in less than 40% of patients with pernicious anaemia.

  2. They are found in about 25% of patients with iron-deficiency anaemia.

  3. They are more frequently found in serum than gastric juice.

  4. They are more often binding (type II) than blocking (type I).

  5. They are helpful in the diagnosis of pernicious anaemia.
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E Correct answer
Explanation

Intrinsic factor antibodies are specific and rarely occur in the absence of latent or overt pernicious anaemia, although a low serum B12 level and a positive gastric parietal cell antibody allows a presumptive diagnosis of PA to be made.

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