Pernicious Anemia – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Vitamin B12 Deficiency

What is Pernicious Anemia?

Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease in which the body does not produce enough intrinsic factor, a protein that helps the body absorb vitamin B12 from food. Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and for the proper functioning of the nervous system.

Causes of Pernicious Anemia

The most common cause of pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder in which the body's immune system attacks the cells in the stomach that produce intrinsic factor. Other causes of pernicious anemia include:

• Gastrectomy (surgical removal of the stomach)
• Atrophic gastritis (chronic inflammation of the stomach)
• Celiac disease
• Crohn's disease
• HIV/AIDS

Symptoms of Pernicious Anemia

The symptoms of pernicious anemia can vary depending on the severity of the vitamin B12 deficiency. Early symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Pale skin
• Tingling or numbness in the hands and feet
• Mood changes
• Memory problems

As the vitamin B12 deficiency worsens, the symptoms can become more severe and may include:

• Anemia
• Jaundice
• Heart failure
• Neurological problems, such as dementia and psychosis

Diagnosis of Pernicious Anemia

Pernicious anemia is diagnosed with a blood test that measures the levels of vitamin B12 in the blood. A bone marrow biopsy may also be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of Pernicious Anemia

The treatment for pernicious anemia is lifelong vitamin B12 injections. These injections can be given at home or in a doctor's office. The frequency of the injections will vary depending on the severity of the vitamin B12 deficiency.

Prevention of Pernicious Anemia

There is no way to prevent pernicious anemia, but early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.

Pernicieuze Anemie