A 65-year-old woman with autoimmune gastritis presents with Hb 8.5 g/dL, MCV 110 fL, hypersegmented neutrophils, and low serum vitamin B12. Her malabsorption is due to failure of intrinsic factor production. Which gastric cells are destroyed in this condition?
- A Parietal cells of the gastric body and fundus ✓
- B Chief cells of the gastric antrum
- C G cells of the gastric antrum
- D Mucous neck cells of the gastric body
Correct answer: A. Parietal cells of the gastric body and fundus
Explanation
Parietal cells of the gastric body and fundus produce intrinsic factor and hydrochloric acid. Autoimmune destruction of parietal cells in pernicious anemia causes intrinsic factor deficiency, preventing ileal absorption of vitamin A12. Chief cells secrete pepsinogen, G cells secrete gastrin, and mucous neck cells produce mucus; none produce intrinsic factor.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.