Anaemia occurs when there is a deficiency of red blood cells and not enough oxygen is circulated around the body. There are a number of different types of anaemia including the genetic sickle cell anaemia and iron deficiency anaemia.

The most common type of anaemia is Pernicious Anaemia. This is an autoimmune disease that is caused due to Vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by a diet lacking in B12, or more commonly due to the lack of Intrinsic Factor (IF), a glycoprotein essential for the absorption of B12.

People with Pernicious Anaemia produce auto-antibodies to IF preventing vitamin B12 absorption, either by blocking the binding of B12 to IF, or by binding directly to the IF-B12 complex itself.

What are the symptoms of Pernicious Anaemia ?

Tiredness
Difficulty in breathing
Dizziness and headaches
A reduced sense of taste
A less sensitive sense of touch
Pains in the legs including muscle spasms

Why test for Anaemia?

If left undiagnosed and untreated, Pernicious Anaemia can lead to damaging of the nervous system and has also been associated with cancer of the stomach.

Can I screen myself for Pernicious Anaemia ?

Yes. We can arrange for a Pernicious Anaemia Screen for you. Choose from a kit to use at home, or come in to Inverness CCT and we will prepare a sample to send to the lab.

Treatment of Aneamia

If your results show a lack of Intrinsic Factor then you must discuss your results with your GP who will prescribe the appropriate treatment. A complete recovery is usually achievable by taking the necessary vitamins or B12 injections.