The patient is a 57-year-old Mr. X, whose tests confirm pernicious anemia. This condition is an autoimmune disorder characterized by gastric mucosa atrophy and decreased parietal cells (Pandharkar & Thote, 2021). One of the reasons for this type is the absence of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) or folic acid in the body system. The impairment of thymidine synthase function is observed and provokes further physiological changes. This pathophysiology is related to such manifestations as fatigue, a swollen tongue, and nausea. Neurologic (nerve) impairments like clumsiness and tingling in toes are explained by the demyelination of nerves due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Gastric parietal cells aim to secrete the intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein that absorbs vitamin B12 (Htut et al., 2021). Most gastric abnormalities become the sign of vitamin B12 or iron deficiency. Besides, vitamin B12 deficiency provokes more anemia-related complications like inflammation, atrophic gastritis, and the necessity to replace intestinal-type epithelium or a part of the stomach.
In addition to the already done tests (the evaluation of erythrocytes, leukocytes, hemoglobin, and serum levels), a homocysteine test can be used as its high level means vitamin deficiency in the bloodstream. Another approach is upper endoscopy to check the stomach for degeneration and atrophy. One of the most common treatment options is to take vitamin B12 (either injections or drugs) and increase its levels in the blood. Homeopathic medicines like phosphorus or picric acid can be recommended to treat pernicious anemia (Pandharkar & Thote, 2021). Still, it is not enough to take several pills and be sure the disease is no longer a problem. Pernicious anemia is chronic, and it is important to take blood samples from time to time and check vitamin B12 levels. There are no serious limitations for the patients, but such food recommendations as increased cereals, meat, and dairy products must be followed.
References
Htut, T. W., Thein, K. Z., & Oo, T. H. (2021). Pernicious anemia: Pathophysiology and diagnostic difficulties. Journal of Evidence-Based Medicine, 14(2), 161–169.
Pandharkar, A. C., & Thote, G. (2021). Anaemia and its homoeopathic approach. Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Innovation, 8(39), 23-25.