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DESCRIPTION
Megablastic Anemia
Pernicious anemia is a blood disorder caused by a lack of vitamin B12 (a cobalamin). Patients who have this disorder do not produce a protein called intrinsic factor (IF) in the stomach that allows the body to absorb vitamin B12.
Pernicious anemia is characterized by the presence in the blood of large, immature, nucleated cells (megaloblasts) that are forerunners of red blood cells. (Red blood cells, when mature, have no nucleus). Pernicious anemia is therefore one of the types of megaloblastic anemia.
Health care providers diagnose pernicious anemia when a patient with a low red blood cell count has large red blood cells and white blood cells with large, multi-lobed nuclei. The patient often has antibodies in the blood called intrinsic factor and parietal cell antibodies. A test that measures that lack of absorption of B12 (Schillings test) can be used to support the diagnosis.
Nowadays, pernicious anemia is not so pernicious. Pernicious anemia is simply treated with vitamin B12. The vitamin B12 has to be administered by injection because people with pernicious anemia do not have adequate protein intrinsic factor (or an effective form of intrinsic factor) and so cannot absorb vitamin B12 taken by mouth.
There is some evidence that pernicious anemia may be genetic although its mode of inheritance is poorly documented. There is a congenital form of pernicious anemia due to defect of intrinsic factor at birth that is clearly inherited as an autosomal recessive trait with the affected child having received two copies of the gene, one from each parent. The intrinsic factor gene itself has been localized to human chromosome 11.
Pernicious anemia was first described in 1855 by the English physician Thomas Addison. The name "pernicious anemia" was coined in 1872 by the German physician Anton Biermer. The studies of George H. Whipple on the effects of feeding liver in anemia followed by those of George R. Minot and William P. Murphy on the effects of feeding liver specifically in pernicious anemia led to the cure of pernicious anemia and to their receiving the Nobel Prize in 1934.
The word "pernicious" means highly injurious, destructive, or deadly. "Pernicious" comes from the Latin root "nex" meaning "violent death." Pernicious anemia was once quite deadly. Today it fortunately is not.
SYNONYMS:
Pernicious Anemia has also been called:
- Vitamin B-12 Deficiency (malabsorption).
- Addison's Anemia.
- Addisonian Pernicious Anemia.
- Addison-Biermer Anemia.
- Biermer Anemia.
- Primary Anemia.
Other subdivision names are:
- Macrocytic Achylic Anemia.
- Congenital Pernicious Anemia due to Defect of Intrinsic Factor (IF).
- Juvenile Pernicious Anemia due to Intestinal Malabsorption of Vitamin B12.
- Gastric Intrinsic Factor, Failure of Secretion.
- Enterocyte Cobalamin Malabsorption.
- Enterocyte Intrinsic Factor Receptor, Defect of.
- Adult Onset Pernicious Anemia.
CAUSES
Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia. Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, a substance needed to absorb vitamin B12 from the gastrointestinal tract. Vitamin B12, in turn, is necessary for the formation of red blood cells. Anemia is a condition where red blood cells are not providing adequate oxygen to body tissues. There are many types and causes of anemia.
Intrinsic factor is a protein the body uses to absorb vitamin B12. When gastric secretions do not have enough intrinsic factor, vitamin B12 is not adequately absorbed, resulting in pernicious anemia and other problems related to low levels of vitamin B12.
Other causes of low levels of intrinsic factor (and thus of pernicious anemia) include atrophic gastric mucosa, autoimmunity against gastric parietal cells, and autoimmunity against intrinsic factor.
Absence of intrinsic factor itself is the most common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency. Intrinsic factor is produced by cells within the stomach. In adults, the inability to make intrinsic factor can be the result of chronic gastritis or the result of surgery to remove the stomach. The onset of the disease is slow and may span decades.
Very rarely, infants and children are found to have been born lacking the ability to produce effective intrinsic factor. This form of congenital pernicious anemia is inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder. (You need a defective gene from both parents to get it.) However, most often, pernicious anemia and other forms of megaloblastic anemia in children results from other causes of vitamin B12 deficiency or other vitamin deficiencies.
Although a juvenile form of the disease can occur in children, pernicious anemia usually does not appear before the age of 30. The average age at diagnosis is 60 years. In fact, one recent study revealed that nearly 2 percent of individuals over 60 years old suffer from pernicious anemia. Furthermore, slightly more women than men are affected. The disease can affect all racial groups, but occurs more often among people of Scandinavian or Northern European descent.
The inability to make intrinsic factor may be the result of chronic gastritis, or the result of a gastrectomy (removal of all or part of the stomach). Megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia may also be associated with type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, and a family history of the disease. In addition to pernicious anemia, other causes of vitamin B12 Deficiency include:
- Nutrition (strict vegetarians without B12 supplementation, poor diet in infant, or poor maternal nutrition during pregnancy).
- Infection (intestinal parasites, bacterial overgrowth).
- Gastrointestinal disease (stomach removal surgery, celiac disease (sprue), Crohn's disease).
- Drugs (colchicine, neomycin, tuberculosis treatment with para amino salicylic acid).
- Metabolic disorders (methylmalonic aciduria, homocystinuria).
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Because vitamin B12 is needed by many cells in our body including nerve cells and blood cells for them to function properly, deficiency can cause a wide variety of symptoms. Inadequate vitamin B12 gradually affects sensory and motor nerves, causing neurological problems to develop over time. It is important to know that the neurological effects of vitamin B12 deficiency may be seen before anemia is diagnosed. The anemia also affects the gastrointestinal system and the cardiovascular system. The following are the most common symptoms for megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The following symptoms may indicate pernicious anemia:
- Shortness of breath.
- Fatigue. Tiring easily, lack of energy.
- Muscle weakness.
- Pallor.
- Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) and/or chest pains.
- Loss or decrease of appetite.
- Weight loss.
- Upset stomach (nausea).
- Abnormal yellow coloration of skin (jaundice).
- Diarrhea.
- Tingling sensations and numbness of hands and feet.
- Sore mouth.
- Unsteady gait, especially in the dark. Difficulty walking.
- Tongue problems. Smooth and tender tongue.
- Smell, impaired.
- Bleeding gums.
- Positive Babinski's reflex (see link below).
- Loss of deep tendon reflexes (see link below).
- Irritability.
- Personality changes, "megaloblastic madness." Megablastic Madness can be manifested by delusions, hallucinations, outbursts, and paranoid schizophrenic ideation.
Recurring episodes of anemia (megaloblastic) are also common. Pernicious Anemia is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, and certain people may have a genetic predisposition to this disorder. The three recognized forms of Pernicious Anemia are Congenital Pernicious Anemia, Juvenile Pernicious Anemia, and Adult Onset Pernicious Anemia. The subdivisions are based on the age at onset and the precise nature of the defect causing impaired B- 12 utilization (e.g., absence of intrinsic factor). The symptoms of megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia may resemble other blood conditions or medical problems. Always consult your health care provider for a diagnosis.
A Precise Description of a Neurological Exam & Reflex Responses.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Risk factors include a family history of pernicious anemia, Scandinavian or Northern European descent, and a history of autoimmune endocrine disorders. Pernicious anemia is seen in association with some autoimmune endocrine diseases such as type 1 diabetes, hypoparathyroidism, Addison's disease, hypopituitarism, testicular dysfunction, Graves disease, chronic thyroiditis, myasthenia gravis, secondary amenorrhea and vitiligo.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Pernicious anemia is not preventable, but with early detection and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency, complications are readily controlled.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
The outcome is usually excellent with treatment.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
People with pernicious anemia may have gastric polyps and have twice the incidence of gastric cancer and gastric carcinoid tumors than the normal population.
Persistent neurological defects may be present if treatment is delayed.
Vitamin B12 deficiency affects the appearance of all epithelial cells, therefore an untreated woman may obtain a false positive pap smear.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
EXAMS AND TESTS
Megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia is usually discovered during a medical examination through a routine blood test. In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia may include additional blood tests and other evaluation procedures, including the Schilling test.
Tests that may indicate pernicious anemia include:
- CBC results that show low hematocrit and hemoglobin with elevated MCV (low red blood cell count with large-sized red blood cells).
- CBC showing low white blood count and low platelets.
- Low reticulocyte count.
- Bone marrow examination (only needed if diagnosis is unclear).
- Serum LDH
- Below normal serum vitamin B12 level.
- Schilling test. The Schilling test is performed to detect vitamin B12 absorption. In the Schilling test, vitamin B12 levels are measured in the urine after the ingestion of radioactive vitamin B12. With normal absorption, the ileum (portion of the small intestine) absorbs more vitamin B 12 than the body needs and excretes the excess into the urine. With impaired absorption, however, little or no vitamin B12 is excreted into the urine.
- Measurement of serum holotranscobalamin II.
- Measurement of methylmalonic acid (MMA).
This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:
- TIBC.
- Peripheral smear.
- Leukocyte alkaline phosphatase.
- Gastrin.
- Cholesterol test.
- Bilirubin.
TREATMENT
Specific treatment for megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia will be determined by your health care provider based on:
- Your age, overall health, and medical history.
- Extent of the disease.
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies.
- Expectations for the course of the disease.
- your opinion or preference.
Treatment may include vitamin B12 injections. Monthly vitamin B12 injections are the definitive treatment to correct the vitamin B12 deficiency. This therapy corrects the anemia and may correct the neurological complications if given soon enough. Since about 1% of vitamin B 12 is absorbed (even in the absence of intrinsic factor), some health care providers recommend that elderly patients with gastric atrophy take oral vitamin B12 supplements in addition to monthly injections.
There is also a preparation of vitamin B12 that may be given intra-nasally (in the nose). A well-balanced diet is essential to provide other elements such as folic acid, iron, and vitamin C for healthy blood cell development.
Report #6972 By Gabe Mirkin, M.D., for CBS Radio News
Checked 12/09/03
Pernicious anemia is due to lack of vitamin B12 and is characterized by progressive nerve damage that causes forgetfulness, loss of ability to concentrate and abnormal sensations such as burning, itching and loss of feeling. However, many people with pernicious anemia do not have abnormally low blood levels of vitamin B12.
A recent study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society shows that older people have lower blood levels of a chemical called homotranscobalamin II that carries vitamin B12 into the cells (1), so they need higher blood levels to have normal tissue levels. Since low-normal blood level of vitamin B12 do not rule out B12 deficiency, the diagnosis of pernicious anemia is often made late in the course of the disease after many people have suffered permanent nerve damage. According to a recent report in the Archives of Internal Medicine, 2% of Americans over 60 have low blood levels of vitamin B12 (2), but the incidence of vitamin B12 deficiency causing nerve damage in older people is much higher than that, sometimes as high a 50% (3,4). Therefore, many older people who are diagnosed with senility actually suffer from lack of vitamin B 12 which can be cured by taking vitamin B supplements. Many cannot correct their B12 deficiency with appropriate diets (5). Lack of vitamin B12 also can cause heart attacks (6,7), so all people over 60 should be screened with blood tests for vitamin B12 and those with normal levels of B12 and symptoms of nerve damage or arteriosclerosis should also get a blood test called homocysteine. Almost always, those with a deficiency can a cured by taking a 1000 microgram pill of vitamin B12 once a day. They usually do not need to take injections. Low levels of B12 are also associated with stomach diseases and infections such as Helicobacter pylori.
1) J Metz, AH Bell, L Flicker, T Bottiglieri, J Ibrahim, E Seal, D Schultz, H Savoia, KM Mcgrath. The significance of subnormal serum vitamin B-12 concentration in older people: A case control study. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society 44: 11 (NOV 1996): 1355-1361.
2) Carmel R. Prevalence of undiagnosed pernicious anemia in the elderly. Archives of Internal Medicine. 1996 (May 27); 156: 1097-1100.
3) E Joosten, A Vandenberg, R Riezler, HJ Naurath, J Lindenbaum, SP Stabler, RH Allen. Am J of Clin Nutr 1993 (Oct); 58(4): 468-476. homocysteine, cystathionine, methylmalonic acid, and 2-methylcitric acid.
4) J Lindenbaum, IH Rosenberg, PWF Wilson, SP Stabler, RH Allen. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 1994 (July); 60(1): 12-14.
4A) LH Allen, J Casterline. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 1994 (July); 60(1): 2-11.
5) 6-week period of vitamin supplementation (1.0 mg folic acid, 10 mg pyridoxine, 0.05 mg cyanocobalamin. JB Ubbink, A Vandermerwe, WJH Vermaak, R Delport. Clinical Investigator 1993 (Dec); 71(12): 993-998.
6) JAMA December 8, 1993; 270 (22): 2693-98 and 2726-7.
7) homocysteine levels are associated with carotid artery stenosis. NEJM 1995 (Feb2); 332(5): 286-291.
HOME TREATMENT: HOLISTIC, NUTRITIONAL & SUPPLEMENTAL
Foods that are rich in folic acid include the following:
- Orange juice & oranges.
- Romaine lettuce, Green leafy vegetables, Spinach.
- Liver.
- Rice, Barley, Sprouts, Wheat Germ, Soybeans.
- Beans, Peas, Lentils, Chick Peas (garbanzo beans).
- Peanuts.
- Broccoli, Asparagus
Foods that are rich in folic acid and vitamin B12 include the following:
- Eggs.
- Meat.
- Poultry.
- Milk & Milk Products.
- Shellfish.
- Fortified cereals.
The supplements listed are for general anemia. For more detailed information about nutritional therapy, see:
MoonDragon's Anemia Information: Holistic, Nutritional, & Herbal Therapy
It is recommended that you consult with your health care provider or nutritionist before beginning any nutritional therapy program. They are familiar with your particular health requirements and conditions.
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Raw liver extract 500 mg twice daily. Contains all the elements needed for red blood cell production. Use liver from organically raised beef. Consider injections (under a health care provider's supervision). Blackstrap molasses Adults: 1 tablespoon twice daily.
Children: 1 teaspoon twice daily.See above under Holistic Recommendations. Folic acid 800 mcg twice daily. Needed for red blood cell formation. Biotin 300 mcg daily. Needed for red blood cell formation. Iron As prescribed by a health care provider. Take with 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. To restore iron. Use ferrous gluconate form. Caution: Do not take iron unless anemia is diagnosed. Floradix Iron Plus Herbs from Salus Haus 2 teaspoons daily. Contains a readily absorbable form of iron that is nontoxic and from a natural source. Vitamin B12 injections 2 cc once weekly or as prescribed by health care provider. Essential in red blood cell production and to break down and prepare protein for cellular use. Injections (under health care providers supervision) are best. If injections are not available, use lozenge or sublingual form for best absorption. Or vitamin B12 2,000 mcg 3 times daily Essential in red blood cell production and to break down and prepare protein for cellular use. Injections (under health care providers supervision) are best. If injections are not available, use lozenge or sublingual form for best absorption. Vitamin B complex 50 mg 3 times daily. B vitamins work best when taken together. A sublingual form is recommended. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5 50 mg 3 times daily. Important in red blood cell production. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 100 mg daily. Involved in cellular reproduction. Aids absorption of vitamin B 12. Vitamin C 3,000-10,000 mg daily. Important in iron absorption. Brewer's yeast As directed on label. Rich in basic nutrients and a good source of B vitamins. Copper 2 mg daily. Needed in red blood cell production. Note: If more zinc is used, increase copper proportionately. Zinc 30 mg daily. Do not exceed this amount. Needed to balance with copper. Raw spleen glandular As directed on label. See Glandular Therapy for more information. Vitamin A 10,000 IU daily. Important antioxidant. Plus natural beta-carotene 15,000 IU daily. Important antioxidant. Or carotenoid complex (Betatene) As directed on label. Important antioxidant. Vitamin E 600 IU daily. Take separately from iron supplements. Important for red blood cell survival; prolongs the life span of these cells. Use emulsion form for better assimulation.
ANEMIA SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Information for help with anemia, a condition that occurs when either the number of red blood cells or the amount of hemoglobin in the blood is reduced.
Iron Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 20 +/- ppm - 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Iron is a pure liquid Iron supplement. Iron is called the "energy giver." It attracts oxygen and builds blood. Along with manganese and copper it is necessary for healthy blood chemistry and is essential for recovery from illness.Appetite Stimulant Formula Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
This herbal appetite stimulant has been designed by a Master Herbalist to stimulate the appetite. It combines herbs well known, and recommended by the German Commission E, for improving the appetite and eliminating symptoms of appetite loss.Iron Complex w/ Vitamins & Herbs, Vegetarian Formula, NOW Foods - 250 Tabs
Iron is part of myoglobin, which helps muscle cells store oxygen - iron-deficient people tire easily in part because their bodies are starved for oxygen and without enough iron, ATP (the fuel the body runs on) cannot be properly synthesized so, as a result, some iron-deficient people become fatigued even when their hemoglobin levels are normal.St. John's Wort, Perika, 300mg - 60 Tabs
Nature's Way St. John's Wort is scientifically advanced to maintain a healthy emotional outlook.Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9) 100% Natural, Nature's Way 800mcg - 100 Caps
Folic acid (Vitamin B-9) is necessary precursor for the manufacture of genetic material like RNA and DNA. It also assists in the growth and repair of tissues and in the conversion of fats and amino acids into other useful products in the body.Brewers Yeast, NOW Foods 650mg - 200 Tabs
Brewer's Yeast has been shown to help people having difficulty sleeping, fatigued, and diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile.Alfalfa Leaves, Nature's Way, 405mg - 100 Caps
Nature's Way Alfalfa Leaves are organically grown by Trout Lake Farm, Washington, and Certified Organically Processed in accordance with Oregon Tilth standards and the California Organic Foods Act of 1990.Bilberry Extract Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Helpful with many different diseases of the eyes including vascular retinal disturbances, cataracts, diabetic-induced glaucoma, myopia, and all forms of eye strain.Black Cherry Fruit Extract 750mg NOW Foods - 90 Vcaps
Black Cherry extract or Black Cherry concentrate has been found to prevent attacks of gout. Black, sweet yellow, and red sour cherries have all shown to be effective.Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Dandelion root is a natural diuretic and improves appetite and minor digestive problems. Dandelion leaves are commonly recommended as a food supplement for pregnant and postmenopausal women.Goldenseal Root Tincture (Hydrastis canadensis), 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Uses include Adrenal Glands; Eye Problems; Fainting; Gallbladder; Gallstones; Nephritis; Pancreatic Disorders; Peritonitis; Poison Ivy/Oak; Prostate Problems; Psoriasis; Pyorrhea; Quinsy,;Scarlet Fever; Spinal Meningitis (sometimes referred to simply as Meningitis); Spleen; WoundsPau D Arco (Purple Lapacho), Inner Bark 545mg - 180 Caps
Pau d'arco is a South American herb which helps strengthen and nourish the body's defense system. A healthy immune system is a key in fighting diseases and infections.Red Raspberry Leaves, 480mg - 100 Caps
Red raspberry leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract.Maca (Lepidum meyenii) Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Today Maca is used to increase energy and support the immune system. Maca can help a number of conditions from fatigue to frigidity.Instant Energy B-12 (2,000 mcg of B-12 per packet), NOW Foods - 75 Packets
NOW® Vitamin B-12 Instant Energy is the perfect way to keep alert and energized, regardless of the situation. These convenient, fast-acting packets are perfect when traveling or for convenience.Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000mg - 250 Vcaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Meta C Vitamin C Supplement, 1000mg - 100 Tabs
Meta C Vitamin C Supplement is a unique form of vitamin C that is absorbed faster than regular vitamin C and maintains higher serum levels for longer period of time with no intestinal discomfort.Vitamin C Liquid, with Rose Hips and Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000mg - 16 fl. oz.
Liquid Vitamin C with Natural Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids is an easy to swallow dietary supplement that exceeds the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.Nettle Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Nettle leaf has become a popular treatment of allergies (hay fever) and it can improve goiter, inflammatory conditions, and arthritis.Amalaki (Dhatri), 100% Natural, 450mg - 120 VCaps
Amalaki is an Ayurvedic effective against allergies, anemia, cold & flu, constipation, diabetes, digestive disorders, and liver problems.Copper Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm - 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Copper is a pure liquid Copper supplement. Copper influences protein metabolism and general healing, improves vitamin C oxidation and is integral in the formation of RNA.Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin), 50mcg & B-9 (Folic Acid), 400mcg - 1 fl. oz.
Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin) helps to maintain a healthy nervous system and helps in the prevention of pernicious anemia.Heart Formula Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
The Heart Formula can be used for anemia, fatigue and heart problems.Spleen & Pancreas Formula Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Use the Spleen & Pancreas Formula to strengthen and nourish the spleen and pancreas naturally.Dong Quai Root Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Dong Quai root is often used in the treatment of menstrual cramps, or dysmenorrhea and PMS, hot flashes, and other menopausal symptoms.Once Daily Multi Vitamin & Mineral, All Natural, Lactose Free, w/ Iron - 100 Tabs
Nature's Way Daily Multi Vitamin & Mineral provides many of the essential nutrients that modern diets may lack. They are useful for protection, growth and maintenance of body systems as they age.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi Vitamin with Mineral, Nature's Way 18mg of Iron added - 90 Tabs
Alive Whole Food Energizer Multi Vitamin with Mineral with Iron by Nature's Way is absorbed into your blood stream 5 times faster than other leading brands.Ester C with Bioflavonoids, 25% More Free, 500mg / 200mg - 150 Vcaps
Nature's Way Ester C with bioflavonoids is 100% natural calcium ascorbate with biologically active metabolites. These metabolites enhance cellular uptake and retention of Vitamin C. Now get 25% more free.Vitamin C Liquid, with Rose Hips and Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000mg - 16 fl. oz.
Liquid Vitamin C with Natural Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids is an easy to swallow dietary supplement that exceeds the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.Barberry Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Barberry is used for treating gallbladder disease, heartburn and indigestion and diarrhea. This herb can also be used to treat infections, parasites, psoriasis, and vaginitis.Cocoa Powder - Certified Organic 100% Natural
From holiday desserts and everyday baking, to a steaming cup of hot cocoa on those cold winter days, NOW® Organic Cocoa Powder offers a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the high amounts of sugar, fat and preservatives common to many commercially available mixes.
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
SURGERY
There is no surgical cure for pernicious anemia.
PLACES TO OBTAIN HELP & INFORMATION
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
1275 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605
Phone: (914) 428-7100
Phone: 1-888-MODIMES (1-888-663-4637)
Fax: (914) 997-4763
TDD: (914) 997-4764
E-mail: resourcecenter@modimes.org
E-mail: Askus@marchofdimes.com
Web Address: http://www.modimes.org
Alternate Web Address: http://www.marchofdimes.com
This organization is dedicated to the prevention of birth defects and infant mortality by providing service and support to the public and the scientific community. The March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation can provide you with free literature and a listing of support groups in your area. Staff members at the resource center are available to answer your questions over the phone.
The Arc (a national organization on mental retardation)
1010 Wayne Ave
Suite 650
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Tel: (301) 565-3842
Fax: (301) 565-3843
Tel: (800) 433-5255
TDD: (817) 277-0553
E-mail: info@thearc.org
Web Address: http://thearc.org/"
American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association, Inc.
22100 Gratiot Avenue
Eastpointe, MI 48021
United States
Tel: (586) 776-3900
Fax: (586) 776-3903
E-mail: aarda@aarda.org
Web Address: http://www.aarda.org/
NIH/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
31 Center Drive MSC 2480
Building 31A Rm 4A16
Bethesda, MD 20892-2480
Tel: (301) 592-8573
Fax: (301) 480-4907
E-mail: nhlbiinfo@rover.nhlbi.nih.gov
Web Address: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/
Genetic Alliance
4301 Connecticut Avenue NW
Suite 404
Washington, DC 20008-2304
USA
Tel: (202) 966-5557
Fax: (202) 966-8553
Tel: (800) 336-4363
E-mail: info@geneticalliance.org
Web Address: http://www.geneticalliance.org
For additional information and assistance about rare disorders, please contact:The National Organization for Rare Disorders
P.O. Box 1968
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
Tel: (203) 744-0100
Web Address: http://www.rarediseases.org
E-mail: orphan@rarediseases.org
Web Page for Rare Disease Listings: http://www.raredisease.org/search/rdblist.html
MEDICATION
Pernicious anemia requires lifelong therapy with vitamin B12 injections.
Anemia caused by a lack of vitamin B12 can be corrected by vitamin pills combined with a more balanced diet. It may be treated initially with vitamin B12 injections.
Anemia caused by malabsorption is treated with vitamin B12 injections until the condition improves.
ACTIVITY
Rest often until the anemia disappears. Follow the recommended diet required for nutritional therapy.
DIET
Eat well and take prescribed supplements.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER IF...
Seek emergency care immediately if one or more of the following symptoms are present:
- Fever greater than 101°F (38.33°C).
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
- Chest pain.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Repeated vomiting or persistent diarrhea.
- Increased paleness or yellowing of skin (jaundice).
- Lightheadedness.
- Sudden onset of weakness.
- Sudden onset of numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, fingers, or toes (even if it goes away on its own).
- Sudden development of poor balance and poor coordination when walking (even if it goes away on its own).
- Confusion (even if it goes away on its own).
- Garbled speech or an inability to speak (even if it goes away on its own).
- Sudden change in vision.
- Severe headache.
- Loss of consciousness.
Notify your health care provider if you or your child has any of the symptoms or signs of pernicious anemia listed above in the Signs & Symptoms section.
MOONDRAGON'S ANEMIA LINKS
