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  • Title: The value of the intrinsic factor antibody test in diagnosing pernicious anaemia.
    Author: Ingram CF, Fleming AF, Patel M, Galpin JS.
    Journal: Cent Afr J Med; 1998 Jul; 44(7):178-81. PubMed ID: 10028193.
    Abstract:
    OBJECTIVE: Assessment of the usefulness of the intrinsic factor antibody (IF Ab) test in comparison to the Schilling test in diagnosing pernicious anaemia (PA) in patients with vitamin B12 deficiency. DESIGN: This study was designed to compare the If Ab test to the Schilling test using results obtained of patients presenting with megaloblastic anaemia and low serum vitamin B12 levels to a large referral hospital. SETTING: The Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Soweto, Gauteng, South Africa. SUBJECTS: Results from 77 patients with megaloblastic anaemia, low serum vitamin B12 levels and with both Schilling and IF Ab test results available were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The sensitivity and specificity of the IF Ab test was compared to the Schilling test with regard to making a diagnosis of PA in patients presenting with megaloblastic anaemia and low serum vitamin B12 levels. RESULTS: Relevant statistical analysis showed that in the correct clinical setting, a confident diagnosis of PA could be made without Schilling tests in patients with megaloblastic anaemia, vitamin B12 deficiency and positive IF Ab tests. In a small proportion of patients in whom the IF Ab is negative, Schilling tests still need to be performed. CONCLUSION: With the increased concern over rising medical costs and where limited facilities are available, the IF Ab, in the correct clinical setting, is a cost effective and reliable test for diagnosis of PA.
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