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Alternative Names Return to top
Macrocytic anemiaDefinition Return to top
B12 deficiency anemia is a drop in the number of red blood cells due to a lack of vitamin B12.
Causes Return to top
Vitamin B12 is essential for normal nervous system function and blood cell production. The main sources of vitamin B12 include meat, eggs, and dairy products. For vitamin B12 to be absorbed by the body, it must bind to intrinsic factor, a protein secreted by cells in the stomach.
Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency include:
The risk factors are related to the causes.
Symptoms Return to top
Exams and Tests Return to top
A physical exam may show problems with reflexes or positive Babinski reflex.
The following tests will be done:
Treatment Return to top
Treatment depends on the specific cause of B12 deficiency anemia.
Pernicious anemia requires lifelong vitamin B12 injections. Those with anemia due to a lack of vitamin B12 may be told to take vitamin supplements and to follow 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.
Outlook (Prognosis) Return to top
Treatment for this form of anemia is usually effective.
Possible Complications Return to top
When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top
Call your health care provider if you have any of the symptoms of anemia.
Prevention Return to top
Anemia caused by a lack of vitamin B12 can be prevented by following a well-balanced diet. B12 injections can prevent anemia after surgeries known to cause vitamin B12 deficiency. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can limit the severity and complications of this anemia.
References Return to top
Chapman IM. Nutritional disorders in the elderly. Med Clin North Am. Sept 2006; 90(5): 887-907.
Rakel RE. Textbook of Family Practice. 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2005:1232.
Update Date: 2/14/2007 Updated by: William Matsui, MD, Assistant Professor of Oncology, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |