Explain pathophysiology behind development of anemia

Reference no: EM133639525

Assignment:

Respond to the post and discuss other potential therapies available for this individual. Explain the pathophysiology behind the development of this type of anemia.

When the stomach fails at making enough glycoprotein called intrinsic factor (IF), the bodies intestinal tract can no longer effectively absorb B12 (Rogers et al., 2023). Intrinsic factor, which is produced by the parietal cells in the gastric mucosa, can bind to vitamin B12 so that it can be sufficiently absorbed. When there is a deficiency of this glycoprotein, the impaired absorption leads to pernicious anemia (Gueant et al., 2022; Rogers et al., 2023). Pernicious anemia is primarily caused due to an autoimmune condition that results in the destruction of the parietal gastric cells, damage caused by antibodies that are made to work against the intrinsic factor (Htut et al., 2021). The red blood cells count can drop as the body struggle to produce enough new RBC's due to low levels of B12.

Further, Htut et al., (2021) establish that red blood cells that are produced in bone marrow are large and abnormally shaped which is known as macrocytic megaloblastic anemia. There are several risk factors for the development of pernicious anemia. Being of European and Scandanavian descent, over the age of 60, and having a genetic predisposition (family history) puts you at higher risk for development (Gueant et al., 2022; Rogers, 2023). Other risk factors include gastrointestinal surgery and inadequate nutrition.

Symptoms can include paresthesia's in the extremities, jaundice, weakness, shortness of breath, and fatigue (Rogers, 2023; Gueant, 2022). Diagnosing early can prevent permanent damage to the body. Treatment options include addressing the underlying cause. Other treatment options include intramuscular injections of B12, which is typically hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin (Gueant et al., 2022). Further treatment options can be necessary. Additional treatment and changes that a person can make are taking daily supplements, using B12 nasal spray, and consuming foods high in vitamin B12. Treatment for this condition is usually lifelong (Rogers, 2023; Gueant et al., 2022). Consistent monitoring of B12 levels is necessary in coordination with your primary care provider (Htut et al., 2021).

References

Guéant, J.-L., Guéant-Rodriguez, R.-M., & Alpers, D. (2022). Vitamin B12 absorption and Malabsorption. Vitamins and Hormones, 241-274.

Htut, T. W., Thein, K. Z., & Oo, T. H. (2021). Pernicious anemia: Pathophysiology and diagnostic difficulties. Journal of Evidence-Based Medicine, 14(2), 161-169.

Rogers, J. L., Brashers, V. L., McCance, K. L., & Huether, S. E. (2023). McCance & Huether's pathophysiology: The biologic basis for disease in adults and children. Elsevier.

Reference no: EM133639525

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