Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Pernicious anaemia is caused due to a lack of Intrinsic Factor (IF) which is a protein produced by gastric parietal cells. IF is required for absorption of vitamin B12 from the diet. This condition is primarily caused when the body’s immune system targets its own tissues and develops antibodies directed against the parietal cells and/or IF. The antibodies can damage the parietal cells and disrupt IF production or prevent IF from carrying out its function.
Specimen container paediatric:
Serum-Plain tube
Specimen container adult:
Serum – SST or Serum-Plain tube
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5mL
Minimum volume adult:
1.0mL
Sample stability:
Refrigerated at 2 to 8 °C – 5 days
Unseperated non-refrigerated – 24 hrs
Frozen – 6 Months
Transport requirements:
Samples should be transported to lab without delay
Freq analysis:
Batch assay
Add on test:
All urgent add ons via telephone on 0191 2821890 and must be confirmed via email to the appropriate email address: [email protected]
Quality assurance:
UK NEQAS Haematinics
Other info :
Test to indicate the presence of an intrinsic factor antibody (IFA).