Pernicious Anemia
(Diseases)
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about pernicious anemia.
What is pernicious anemia?
It is an autoimmune disease that prevents your body from absorbing vitamin B12. A deficiency in vitamin B12 leads to a decrease in red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body.
- What are the symptoms of pernicious anemia?
- The symptoms are often the same as those of general anemia, such as:
- Dizziness when standing up or during exertion.
- Pale skin.
Shortness of breath, often during physical activity.
- General fatigue.
- There may also be additional symptoms caused by severe vitamin B12 deficiency, such as:
Swelling or redness of the tongue, or bleeding gums.
- Peripheral nerve damage causing numbness and weakness.
- What are the causes of pernicious anemia?
- Weakening of the stomach lining (atrophic gastritis).
An autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the cells in the stomach lining.
- In rare cases, it may be hereditary.
- Certain diseases can increase the risk of developing pernicious anemia, including:
- Addison’s disease.
- Graves’ disease.
- Some thyroid disorders.
- Premature loss of normal ovarian function before age 40 (primary ovarian failure).
- Type 1 diabetes.
- Vitiligo.
Digestive disorders.
Celiac disease.
- How is perniciousCBCanemia diagnosed?
- The doctor will take your medical history and perform a physical examination. Additional tests may be ordered as needed, such as:
- Complete blood count (CBC): This test identifiesthe type and severity of anemia.
- Vitamin B12MMAlevel.
- Bilirubin level: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down.
- Methylmalonic acid (MMA) level: High levels indicate vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Reticulocyte count: This test shows whether the bone marrow is producing new red blood cells.
Presence of antibodies to the cells responsible for vitamin B12 absorption.
Gastroscopy (endoscopy).
- How is pernicious anemia treated?
- The goal of treatment is to increase vitamin B12 levels. Treatment is done through several procedures may include one or more of the following, depending on the patient’s condition:
- Vitamin B12 injections into the muscle.
High-dose oral vitamin B12 supplements.
If bacteria are preventing vitamin B12 absorption, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
How can pernicious anemia be prevented?
- There is no known way to prevent pernicious anemia. However, early detection and treatment can help reduce complications.
- What are the complications of pernicious anemia?
- Increased risk of stomach cancer.
Increased risk of fractures in the back, upper leg, and upper forearm.
Brain and nervous system problems may persist or become permanent if treatment is delayed.
When should you see a doctor?
You should see your doctor if you have symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Does pernicious anemia mean it is a type of cancer?
No, the name of the disease has nothing to do with cancer. It is not classified as a type of cancer and does not turn into blood cancer. However, regular follow-ups and adherence to prescribed treatment are essential.
