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Treatment for PERINICIOUS ANEMIA with raised MCV.

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Hi I have recently been diagnosed with Pernicious anemia. It was a shock as I didn't have symptoms . I am unsure about the diagnosis as I have read that alcohol can raise MCV levels. .which could have led to my raised MCV. ..I am also a
vegetarian ..so could the diagnosis be wrong ? The doctor also tested for parietal cells and it came back negative. I am hoping this could be solved through diet rather than injections of b 12 for life...I have had the loading doses which have raised my levels from 190 to 2000. I am now eating meat and don't drink alcohol. Many Thanks

Category: Hematologist

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Category: Hematologist
 32 Doctors Online

Hello,
Being a vegetarian, can cause deficiency of Vit B12 and that can get corrected with a couple of doses of the injection. Animal diet replenishes the levels.
I would advise you to consume healthy diet and exercise regularly.
You can send your current complete report for review. A repeat blood test after 2 months time can give us a better idea when the recovery is complete
Regards.


Patient replied :

Hi, Thanks for your reply. did you have a look at my blood test results ?

  • Do you think I have pernicious anemia from the MCV levels /b12 ?
  • Could the raised MCV level be due to alcohol consumption?
  • Do you think correct diagnosis will depend on whether my b12 level stay raised over the next few months ?
  • What would be the expected drop from 2000 over 3 months ? I am also now taking a sublingual B12 - 5000 mg


Many Thanks Louise


1. Yes it could be based on your dietary habits. Veggie are deficient in Vit B 12 but your MCV is not grossly changed. However, since your levels are low, supplement is a must.
2. Alcohol causes decreased absorption of various nutrients including B12 and folates.
3. Take regular nutritional and vitamin supplements which are essential for normal well being.
Regards.


Patient replied :

Ok thanks. From my fbc would you say I need to increase my ferritin levels..my gp says they are normal but I have read over 70 is optimum for women. Many Thanks


Basal levels can be normal. However, more nutritional the food is,
better are the chances of faster recovery. I would advise you to
continue healthy food habits and avoid alcohol totally.

Kind regards.


Patient replied :

Ok but could you give me more details based on my blood results please


Your condition is absolutely normal as per blood reports unless you are very symptomatic about vitamin deficiency. I would suggest you to take healthy hygienic and nutritionally balanced food with lots of fruits, vegetables,egg and meat.
Please revert back in case of any queries.
Regards.


Dr. Prasad Eswaran
Category: Hematologist
Experience: 
Doctorate in Medicine (Fellowship in Oncology), DM,  Madras Medical College & Govt. General Hospital, Chennai, India.

Doctor of Medicine (Residency in Radiation Oncology) , MD, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamilnadu, India, 2004-06.

Diploma in Medical Radiology & Therapy (Residency in Radiation Oncology), D.M.R.T, Madras Medical College & Govt. General Hospital, Chennai, India, 2004-06.

Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery - M.B.B.S, Govt. Stanley Medical College & Hospital, Chennai, India, 1998-2004.
Dr. Prasad Eswaran and 4 other Medical Specialists are ready to help you

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