B12 Folate Deficiency - Pernicous Deficiency

Question 1

What are the 2 main causes of B12 deficiency ?

Answer 1

• low b12 in the diet
• Pernicious Anaemia

Question 2

How is B12 normally absorbed in the body?

Answer 2

• The parietal cells produce intrinsic factor which bind to b12 and causes b12 to be absorbed into the body

Question 3

What happens in Pernicious Anaemia?

Answer 3

• autoimmune condition
• the body produces antibodies
• Intrinsic factor antibody and Gastric Parietal Cell antibody

Question 4

What are some of the symptoms of B12 deficiency?

Answer 4

• Peripheral Neuropathy
• Visual changes
• Changes to vibration and proprioception
• Cognitive and Mood changes

Question 5

What is important to know about the management for Pernicious Anaemia?

Answer 5

• You must treat the B12 first and then the folate due to the risk of subacute degeneration of the cord

Question 6

What is the management for B12 deficiency?

Answer 6

• oral cyancobalamin
• 1mg hydroxycobalamin IM ( three times a week for 2 weeks and then once every 3 months)