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Pernicious Anemia Research Paper

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Pernicious anemia is a condition in which the body fails to make enough healthy red blood cells because there is a deficiency of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that the body needs in order to make healthy red blood cells and to keep the nervous system working properly. Individuals with pernicious anemia can’t absorb enough vitamin B12 from foods because they lack intrinsic factor (IF), a protein made in the stomach that is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. A lack of this protein leads to a deficiency of vitamin B12. ( ) The decreased absorption of vitamin B12 from the gastrointestinal tract that causes this condition is believed to be the result of an autoimmune process which makes the body’s immune system attack the lining of the stomach. Normally, vitamin B12 binds to intrinsic factor in the stomach to help ease its absorption later when digestive products pass through the small intestines. The autoimmune process attacks the IF protein resulting in lower IF levels in stomach secretions, therefore, causing vitamin B12 to not be absorbed. ( ) …show more content…

This symptom occurs because our body doesn't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the different parts of it. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to nerve damage. This can cause tingling and numbness in your hands and feet, muscle weakness, and loss of reflexes. You can also feel unsteady and lose your balance. Other symptoms of pernicious anemia can affect the digestive tract causing nausea, heartburn, vomiting, constipation, abdominal bloating, diarrhea, loss of appetite and weight loss. Severe vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neurological problems, such as depression, mental disorientation, and memory loss. A smooth, thick, red tongue is also a sign that there is a vitamin B12

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