Pernicious anemia or Megaloblastic anemia is a disease where large, immature, nucleated cells (megaloblasts, which are forerunners of red blood cells) circulate in the blood, and do not function as blood cells. Megaloblasts are produced in the bone marrow when vitamin B-12 or folic acid levels are low.
It is due to an inability to absorb vitamin B-12 (also known as cobalamin or Cbl) from the gastrointestinal tract. Vitamin B12 substitute is a nutrient found in animal products; both meat and dairy products.
Normally, vitamin B-12 binds to intrinsic factor in the stomach, and this facilitates its absorption by the small intestine. Auto antibodies against intrinsic factor (IF), attacks the IF protein and lowers IF levels in stomach secretions resulting in the failure of absorption of vitamin B-12.
Pernicious anemia is sometimes associated with other autoimmune diseases such as Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and vitiligo (depigmentation or blanching of skin areas).
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Megaloblastic anemia can also be caused by other disease of the bone marrow and can be a side effect of some cancer chemotherapy drugs. In addition to weakness and other anemia associated problems, severe or long-lasting pernicious anemia can damage the heart, brain, and other organs in the body.
Pernicious anemia also can cause other complications, such as nerve damage, neurological problems (such as memory loss), and digestive tract problems. People who have pernicious anemia also may be at higher risk for stomach cancer.
Pernicious anemia usually is easy to treat with vitamin B12 pills or shots. With ongoing care and proper treatment, most people who have pernicious anemia can recover, feel well, and live normal lives.