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Pernicious Anemia

Pernicious Anemia is a type of Anemia that is classified as megaloblastic anemia. It is often caused by a Vitamin B12 deficiency.

This deficiency is caused by an absence of something called intrinsic factor. Without intrinsic factor, the absorption of Vitamin B12 is very difficult.

Intrinsic factor is produced in Stomach cells called parietal cells. Occasionally the loss of the parietal cells occurs. Anemia, in this case, occurs after long periods of absence of vitamin B-12

Symptoms:

–  Diarrhea
–  Fatigue
–  Shortness of breath
–  Jaundice
–  Swollen tongue
–  Hypothyroidism
–  Hyperthyroidism

Diagnosis

–  Blood work is very important in the diagnosis

Treatment

–  There is no cure
–  Replacement of Vitamin B12 is required
–  Injections vary from monthly to every 3 months depending on the country