Final answer:
Pernicious anemia is a condition where the body cannot properly absorb vitamin B12, leading to a deficiency and megaloblastic anemia. Treatment includes lifelong supplementation of vitamin B12. Risk factors include certain intestinal diseases, dietary restrictions, and various lifestyle and health conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pernicious anemia is a blood disorder characterized by the inability of the body to absorb vitamin B12 adequately, which is crucial for the production of healthy red blood cells. This condition can be caused by various factors including Crohn's disease, surgical removal of parts of the stomach or intestines, intestinal parasites, and AIDS. People with pernicious anemia typically exhibit symptoms such as fatigue and weakness due to the reduced number of red blood cells (a condition known as megaloblastic anemia). The red blood cells often appear large and underdeveloped, referred to as 'red, beefy cells', due to the lack of vitamin B12 or folate.
Treatment for this condition involves lifelong administration of vitamin B12 supplements, as the body cannot absorb it from the diet due to the underlying absorption problems. The discovery of vitamin B12 in the 1940s marked a significant advancement in the treatment of pernicious anemia. This complex molecule, containing cobalt instead of iron, is vital for various cellular processes and helps in the transportation of iron within the body
Individuals most at risk for developing this type of anemia include teens, children, vegetarians, vegans, and those with certain conditions or dietary restrictions that hinder the intake or absorption of vitamin B12. Other conditions, such as pregnancy, excessive alcohol consumption, and diseases like celiac disease, can also lead to vitamin deficiencies and, consequently, to different types of anemia.