Definition

Anemia is a low level of healthy red blood cells (RBC). RBCs carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When red blood cells are low the body does not get enough oxygen. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, or irregular heartbeat.

Pernicious anemia is associated with problems absorbing vitamin B12. This vitamin is needed to make healthy RBCs. Over time the low vitamin B12 levels will reduce the number of new RBCs. The sooner pernicious anemia is treated, the better the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor.

Red Blood Cells

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Causes

There are many possible causes of pernicious anemia. Some are listed below.

• Atrophic gastritis (inflammation of the stomach)
• Removal of all or part of the stomach
• Immune system reaction to:
  • Intrinsic factor—a protein necessary for vitamin B12 absorption
  • Cells that produce both intrinsic factor and hydrochloric acid in the stomach
• Genetics

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

The following factors increase your chance of developing pernicious anemia:

• Autoimmune disorders and other conditions, such as:
  • Type 1 diabetes
  • Addison’s disease
  • Graves’ disease
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Secondary amenorrhea
  • Hypoparathyroidism
  • Hypopituitarism
  • Testicular dysfunction
  • Chronic thyroiditis
  • Vitiligo
  • Idiopathic adrenocortical insufficiency
• Ancestry: northern European or Scandinavian
• Age: over 50 years old

Symptoms

The symptoms of pernicious anemia can vary from person-to-person. Symptoms may change or worsen over time. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to pernicious anemia. These symptoms may be caused by other health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician. Symptoms can include:

• Sensation of pins and needles in feet or hands
• Alternating constipation and diarrhea
• Stinging sensation on the tongue, or a smooth red tongue
• Substantial weight loss
• Inability to distinguish the colors yellow and blue
• Tiredness
• Paleness
• Loss of hunger
• Altered sense of taste
• Confusion
• Depression
• Impaired sense of balance, especially in the dark
• Ringing in the ears
• Cracked lips
• Fever
• Inability to sense vibrations in feet or legs
• Dizziness when changing to standing position
• Rapid heart rate

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.

Tests may include the following:

• Complete blood count (CBC)—a count of the number of red and white blood cells in a blood sample
• Vitamin B12 level—a test that measures the amount of vitamin B12 in the blood
• Methylmalonic acid (MMA) level—a measurement of the amount of methylmalonic acid in the blood; this test determines whether a vitamin B12 deficiency exists.
• Homocysteine level—a test that measures the amount of homocysteine in the blood (homocysteine is a building block of protein)
• Schilling test—a test in which a harmless amount of radiation is used to assess the amount of stored vitamin B12 (rarely used)
• Red blood cell folate level—a measurement of the amount of a B vitamin called folate
• Intrinsic factor assay—a measurement of the amount of a protein called intrinsic factor normally produced by the stomach
• Bone marrow staining—a test that shows whether an iron deficiency exists

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of getting pernicious anemia, take the following steps:

• Avoid over-consuming alcohol.
• Have your doctor check you for signs of iron deficiency.
• Undergo testing if your doctor suspects you are infected with the bacterium Helicobacter pylori.