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Pernicious Anemia (PA) is a deficiency anemia only to vitamin B12
and comes from a need of intrinsic factor.
PA is most likely
an autoimmune disease. Cells are destroyed by the immune system in
the stomach that emits intrinsic factor. It is common to have both
chronic swelling of the stomach lining (atrophic gastritis) and
antibodies fighting intrinsic factor cells.
PA is commonly
referred to as any anemia with a deficiency in vitamin B12. This
deficiency may be caused by malabsorption of dietary B12, even
though normal levels of intrinsic factor are seen. Celiac disease
and Crohn’s disease can cause B12 malabsorption that leads to
anemia. Gastrointestinal surgery, intestinal parasites, and certain
drugs are also common causes of B12 deficiency. Pregnancy,
hyperthyroidism, and advanced stages of cancer can cause need for
B12, which can lead to a state of deficiency.
Initially, B12
supplements should be given as an injection by a qualified medical
professional. When blood abnormalities are inverted, supplementation
may then be given orally with vitamin B12 at 1,000 to 2000 mcg per
day. People who lack intrinsic factor will normally only absorb 1%
of this amount, which is enough to help with future vitamin B12
deficiencies. Some doctors will recommend continuing lifelong B12
injections, even though it may be unnecessary.
Vitamin B12
supplementation may assist in preventing pernicious
anemia.
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