Description Vitamin B12 deficie...
Description
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a decreased amount of vitamin B12 in the body. It is also known as pernicious anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for the normal production of red blood cells and for the normal functioning of nerves. Dietary vitamin is found almost exclusively in animal products and yeast (brewer's yeast). People with this deficiency may have a decreased number of red blood cells (anemia). The two main reasons for vitamin B12 deficiency are inadequate intake or inability for the intestines to absorb it. Strict vegetarians are at risk of B12 deficiency. One reason for inadequate absorption is the lack of a protein called intrinsic factor. It's made by the lining of the stomach and helps with the absorption of vitamin B12. Reasons for loss of intrinsic factor include an auto-immune problem whereby antibodies destroy it or stomach surgery. Absorption can also be impaired even with normal amounts of intrinsic factor if there is disease or surgical removal of the lowest section of the small intestine, or overgrowth of certain bacteria that steal the vitamin B12.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, a rapid heart rate, nausea, shortness of breath or poor appetite. If the vitamin deficiency goes on for a long time, symptoms may include numbness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, confusion, memory loss and depression.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to make the diagnosis. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be recommended.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Other Specific Tests: Vitamin B12, Intrinsic factor antibody, bone marrow biopsy
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology)
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Blood tests will be performed to make the diagnosis. In some cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be recommended.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Other Specific Tests: Vitamin B12, Intrinsic factor antibody, bone marrow biopsy
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology)
Treatment
Treatment is directed at replacing vitamin B12. Injections or pills as well as dietary changes may be recommended. If the cause of the vitamin B12 deficiency is related to bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, the doctor may recommend antibiotic treatment such as tetracycline. If anemia is severe a blood transfusion may be required.