05/01/2026
🩸 What is Pernicious Anaemia?
Pernicious Anaemia (PA) is an autoimmune disease that prevents the body from absorbing vitamin B12—a vital nutrient needed for healthy red blood cells, nerve function, and brain health.
For over a century, doctors and scientists struggled to understand why patients were dying from what was once a fatal condition. It wasn’t until the 1920s that replacement B12 therapy was discovered, eventually leading to the availability of effective treatment.
🔬 How does PA affect the body?
✅ The stomach normally produces Intrinsic Factor, a protein essential for absorbing vitamin B12.
❌ In PA, the immune system attacks Intrinsic Factor and the stomach lining, making B12 absorption impossible.
⚠️ Without enough B12, red blood cells become misshapen and enlarged, leading to severe fatigue, brain fog, nerve damage, and long-term complications.
🚨 Why is early diagnosis crucial?
🔹 Many cases of PA go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because symptoms mimic other conditions.
🔹 Some doctors only check B12 levels if anaemia is present, but PA can cause neurological symptoms long before anaemia develops.
🔹 Testing limitations mean that even those with PA might not test positive for the standard Intrinsic Factor Antibody test.
💉 The Lifesaving Treatment
PA can’t be cured, but it can be managed with lifelong B12 replacement therapy (usually injections). However, many patients still struggle to get the right diagnosis and proper treatment.
💡 Want to learn more?
Our webinars cover everything from symptoms to diagnosis and ongoing care—perfect for patients, carers, and professionals.
Explore our webinar recordings and resources in the PAS shop: https://shop.pernicious-anaemia-society.org/
Support our charity by becoming a member or donating, and follow our page for more insights and useful information about PA!
