Test for pernicious anemia.

[Ilala]

Hello.

We are wondering what is the test for pernicious anemia that looks at the red blood cells.

The test so far have been b12 which is low and folate which is also low. Doing a test for intrinsic factor but we are told this test isn’t reliable.

Which is the reliable test please and where is it done?

Are there any doctors in the Southampton of England (Hampshire) that are well informed re pernicious anemia?

Thank you.

[Gambit62 Administrator]

There currently isn't a reliable test for PA as the cause of a B12 deficiency. IFA is actually the best test currently available, and for this reason the current BCSH guidelines refer to 'IFAB negative pernicious anaemia.

PA is actually an issue in the gut that reduces/destroys your ability to absorb B12 in the ileum. This leads to B12 deficiency - one typical symptom of B12 is a particularly type of anaemia - macrocytic anaemia - in which your red blood cells are larger and rounder than they should be. Folate deficiency will also cause macrocytic anaemias.

PA is an historic misnomer as it was first observed as a type of anaemia that resulted in madness and death - about 200 years before people actually managed to identify B12.

PA is the most likely cause of a B12 deficiency - think it may be easier to rule out other possibilities than demonstrate that it is PA

[Ina505 in reply to Gambit62]

I have been having 3 monthly B12 injections every three months for about 18 months. My last blood test showed that my haemoglobin was very low so was sent for an endoscopy and a colonoscopy to see if there was internal bleeding. There wasn’t. I do feel so very tired and of low mood. Since the investigations above I have heard no more from the dr. I also have white patches on arms and hands and a very itchy skin. Is anyone else feeling like this.

I havnt been given iron for my anaemia either.

[Gambit62 Administrator in reply to Ina505]

PA can affect your ability to absorb other minerals and vitamins which includes iron.

Suggest you contact the doctor again about iron and whether you should be supplementing.