A disease where an inability to absorb vitamin B12 prevents the production of red blood cells and damages the spinal cord.
An autoimmune disease in which sensitized lymphocytes destroy the parietal cells of the stomach. These cells normally produce intrinsic factor, which is the carrier protein for vitamin B12, that permits its absorption in the terminal ileum. Without intrinsic factor, vitamin B12, cannot be absorbed and this gives rise to a macrocytic anaemia. The skin and mucosa become pale and the tongue smooth and atrophic. A peripheral neuropathy is often present, causing paraesthesiae, numbness and even ataxia. The more severe neurological complication of sub-acute combined degeneration of the cord is fortunately more rare. A monthly injection of vitamin B12, is all that is required to keep the patient healthy.
A form of anemia characterized by decreased levels of the oxygen-transporting pigment, haemoglobin, due to the stomach lining’s inability to produce intrinsic factor. This factor is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12. A lack of vitamin B12 hinders the bone marrow’s capability to generate normal red blood cells.