| Pernicious anemia is characterized by incomplete development of red blood cells (RBCs) due to vitamin B12 deficiency. This lack in vitamin B12 can occur through dietary malnutrition, an autoimmune disorder, genetic disease, or ileal resection (surgical removal of distal portion of small intestine).
Intrinsic factor is a Chemical secreted by the parietal cells of the stomach. This factor is responsible for binding vitamin B12 and aiding absorption in the small intestine. Antibodies that destroy the parietal cells, or defective parietal cells, can Lead to vitamin B12 deficiency. The parietal cells are also responsible for secreting the hydrochloric acid (HCl) of the stomach that aids in disinfection and digestion. In pernicious anemia, there May also be digestive problems associated with poor acid secretion. |