A low blood count that occurs as a result of a deficiency of vitamin B-12 is called pernicious anemia. Vitamin B-12 contributes to the proper development of healthy red blood cells. When vitamin B-12 is lacking in the body, the body cannot properly produce red blood cells.
Causes
Several different conditions can lead to the development of pernicious anemia. One of the most common is a lack of intrinsic factor, a protein required for the absorption of vitamin B12. Another cause of pernicious anemia is malabsorption of the vitamin in the small intestine due to digestive disorders, prior surgeries or infections. Less commonly, pernicious anemia can develop as a result of inadequate dietary intake of vitamin B-12. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute notes that this is more common in strict vegetarians and vegans.
Symptoms
Red blood cells are responsible for delivering oxygen to and removing carbon dioxide from the tissues. When red blood cell count is low, it disrupts this process. When the tissues do not receive enough oxygen, it can result in fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, headache, decreased temperature in the hands and feet, pale skin and gums and chest pain. Occasionally, an abnormal heart rhythm, called an arrhythmia may also develop.
Treatment
Treatment for pernicious anemia consists of supplementation with vitamin B-12 to restore levels to normal. Mild cases of pernicious anemia can be successfully treated with oral supplementation of the vitamin. Severe cases may require regular intravenous injections of vitamin B-12.
Complications
Vitamin B-12 also plays an important role in keeping the nervous system healthy. When the vitamin is missing from the body for an extended period of time, it can result in nerve damage. Nerve damage may cause abnormal sensations such as tingling and numbness in the hands and feet. Damage to the nerves can also cause muscle weakness, loss of balance and difficulty walking.
Prevention
If pernicious anemia develops as a result of a lack of vitamin B-12 in the diet, it is important to increase dietary intake of the vitamin. The best food sources of vitamin B-12 include beef, liver, poultry, fish, shellfish, eggs, milk, yogurt, cheese and fortified breakfast cereals, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The Food and Nutrition Board recommends consuming 2.4 mcg of vitamin B-12 every day.
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