Last Updated on December 12, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Pernicious anaemia is a subtype of vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia. It is an autoimmune condition that results from the body’s inability to absorb an adequate amount of vitamin B12 from the gastrointestinal tract. Understanding the symptoms and causes of pernicious anaemia is crucial for early detection and effective management.
What causes pernicious anaemia?
The leading cause of pernicious anaemia is the lack of intrinsic factors, a protein produced by the stomach lining. Intrinsic factor is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Without intrinsic factors, the body cannot effectively absorb vitamin B12 from the food we consume, leading to a deficiency.
Several factors contribute to the absence of intrinsic factors. These include autoimmune atrophic gastritis, a condition where the immune system attacks and damages the stomach lining. This damage results in a reduction or elimination of intrinsic factor production. Additionally, certain surgical procedures, such as the removal of parts of the stomach or small intestine, can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12, contributing to pernicious anaemia.
What are the symptoms of pernicious anaemia?
There is a wide array of manifestations associated with pernicious anaemia. This disease involves autoimmune inflammation in the stomach and the inability to absorb vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Common symptoms include:
- Fatigue and weakness: This sub-type of anaemia can lead to fewer blood cells to carry oxygen to various parts. As a result, patients experience fatigue and weakness.
- Pale or jaundiced skin: Anaemia can cause a reduction in red blood cells, leading to paleness, while the breakdown of red blood cells can result in jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes.
- Shortness of breath: Reduced oxygen-carrying capacity due to anaemia can lead to shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion.
- Neurological symptoms: Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. This condition can cause neurological symptoms such as tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, and cognitive disturbances.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Individuals with this type of anaemia may experience digestive problems such as nausea, diarrhoea, etc.
What is the diagnosis and treatment for pernicious anaemia?
Diagnosing pernicious anaemia often involves blood tests to measure the levels of vitamin B12 and other blood components. Additionally, tests may be conducted to detect antibodies against intrinsic factors, which can indicate an autoimmune response.
The primary treatment for pernicious anaemia is the administration of vitamin B12 supplements. The doctors typically prescribe injections of vitamin B12. The injections bypass the digestive system and directly provide the necessary vitamins to the bloodstream. In some cases, oral supplements may be recommended, especially for individuals with less severe deficiencies.
Lifelong vitamin B12 supplementation is usually necessary for individuals with pernicious anaemia. Regular monitoring of vitamin B12 levels and symptoms is essential to ensure the effectiveness of treatment and to address any potential complications promptly.
In conclusion, pernicious anaemia, characterised by the body’s inability to absorb sufficient vitamin B12, is a condition with diverse symptoms affecting various bodily systems. Recognizing the signs and causes of pernicious anaemia is paramount for timely diagnosis and intervention. With appropriate treatment, individuals with pernicious anaemia can manage their condition effectively, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive healthcare in addressing this unique form of anaemia.
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