The most important disease associated with vitamin B12 deficiency is pernicious anemia. lt is characterized by low hemoglobin levels, decreased number of erythrocytes and neurological manifestations. One or more of the following causes are attributed to the occurrence of pernicious anemia. Autoimmune destruction of gastric parietal cells that secrete intrinsic factor. In the absence of lF, vitamin B12 cannot be absorbed. Hereditary malabsorption of vitamin B12 Partial or total gastrectomy-these individuals become intrinsic factor deficient. Insufficient production of lF and/or gastric HCl, occasionally seen in older people. Dietary deficiency of B12, is seen among the strict vegetarians of low socioeconomic group in the developing countries (lndia, Srilanka etc.). Key Concept: The most important disease associated with vitamin B12 deficiency is pernicious anemia. Reference: Satyanarayana Biochemistry 3rd ed page no 155
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