Positive APCA

[Sharon]

I am sero-negative for both RA and SS but a very high POSITIVE for APCA
which is an entirely separate AI in itself.

APCA= anti parietal cell antibody

My doctors have no suggestions for how to treat this and basically shrug their shoulders.
They just say it can indicate inflammation of the stomach lining (which explains my "IBS"),
mess up my B12 absorbtion (but that's not happening yet)
and lead to gastroparesis.

I want to treat this and prevent future complications from it, but how?
Does anyone else here have positive APCA?

[irish]

I looked this test up and the way I interpret it this test identifies the antibody that destroys the parietal cells in the stomach. These cells make and release the intrinsic factor which is related to the use of vitamin b12 in or body. I would think that you would eventually develop the pernicious anemia.

I am confused about this causing gastroparesis as this condition of the bowel is considered a neuropathy. Gastroparesis can affect the stomach, small and large intestine and slows the peristalsis so that food and stool are delayed in their trip through the GI tract. I would check with your doctor again about this or maybe get a second opinion. Good luck Irish

[Sharon]

Thanks irish, in any case no doctor can suggest a treatment for the condition to prevent it from developing even further (it's also implicated in stomach cancer). 

[susanep]

I have not heard of this. I hope you can find out more about it, and a way to treat it.

Hugs,
susanep

[Sharon]

Thank you for your kind wishes susanep