Pernicious Anemia: Tests
A type of anemia (low red blood cell count) caused by the body’s inability to absorb vitamin B12.
Part of: Pernicious Anemia
About Tests for Pernicious Anemia
Your doctor will diagnose pernicious anemia based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and test results.
Your doctor will want to find out whether the condition is due to a lack of intrinsic factor or another cause. He or she also will want to find out the severity of the condition, so it can be properly treated.
Specialists Involved
Primary care doctors—such as family doctors, internists, and pediatricians (doctors who treat children)—often diagnose and treat pernicious anemia. Other kinds of doctors also may be involved, including:
A neurologist (nervous system specialist) A cardiologist (heart specialist) A hematologist (blood disease specialist) A gastroenterologist (digestive tract specialist)Medical and Family Histories
Your doctor may ask about your signs and symptoms. He or she also may ask:
Whether you’ve had any stomach or intestinal surgeries Whether you have any digestive…