About Pernicious Anemia
Key Highlights
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Effective reversal of anemia and its associated symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.Prevention of serious, potentially irreversible neurological complications (e.g., nerve damage, memory problems).Lifelong but straightforward management plan primarily involving regular B12 supplementation.Non-surgical, medical management overseen by an Internal Medicine specialist.Can significantly improve quality of life and long-term health outcomes.
Who is this surgery for?
- Presence of macrocytic anemia (enlarged red blood cells) on a complete blood count (CBC).
- Symptoms of anemia such as severe fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, and shortness of breath.
- Neurological symptoms suggestive of B12 deficiency, including numbness, tingling in hands/feet, balance problems, memory loss, or mood changes.
- A positive test for intrinsic factor antibodies or parietal cell antibodies.
- Findings of atrophic gastritis (thinning stomach lining) on endoscopy, often associated with the condition.
- History of autoimmune disorders (e.g., thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes) which increase risk.
How to prepare
- Detailed medical history review and physical examination by the Internal Medicine doctor.
- Completion of initial blood tests, including a Complete Blood Count (CBC), vitamin B12 level, and folate level.
- Fasting may be required for certain follow-up blood tests (like methylmalonic acid or homocysteine).
- For diagnostic endoscopy, patients will need to follow specific pre-procedure fasting and medication instructions.
- Discussion of symptoms, family history, and any current medications with the physician.
Risks & possible complications
- If left untreated, risk of permanent neurological damage, including neuropathy, ataxia, and cognitive decline.
- Potential for complications from untreated anemia, such as heart problems (tachycardia, heart failure).
- Risks associated with B12 injections are minimal but can include pain or redness at the injection site, mild itching, or rare allergic reactions.
- High-dose oral B12 supplements are generally very safe but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some individuals.
- Delay in diagnosis can lead to worsening of symptoms and more complex recovery.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial response to B12 therapy is often rapid, with improvement in energy levels within days to weeks.
- Neurological symptoms may take longer to improve (months) and some damage may be irreversible if treatment was delayed.
- Commitment to lifelong, regular B12 supplementation (injections every 1-3 months or daily high-dose oral tablets) as prescribed.
- Regular follow-up blood tests to monitor B12 levels, red blood cell counts, and treatment efficacy.
- No specific activity restrictions; patients are encouraged to resume normal activities as energy levels permit.
- Ongoing monitoring for the development of other autoimmune conditions is recommended.
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Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient management)
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Expected recovery time: Ongoing management; symptomatic improvement in 2-6 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering pernicious anemia in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for pernicious anemia in India include Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Manipal Hospital Kanakapura Road, Manipal Hospital EM Bypass, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, KMC Hospital Mangalore, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform pernicious anemia. MediFyr helps you compare internal medicine specialists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for pernicious anemia compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 54 – USD 272 | 0 days (Outpatient management) | ~ Ongoing management; symptomatic improvement in 2-6 weeks | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 403 – USD 2,013 | 0 days (Outpatient management) | ~ Ongoing management; symptomatic improvement in 2-6 weeks | Know More |
Top hospitals for Pernicious Anemia in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated internal medicine teams and experience managing patients undergoing pernicious anemia.
My 82-year-old father was admitted with...
My 82-year-old father was admitted with severe pneumonia and multiple complications. Dr. Suhas MS not only managed his complex condition with expertise but took the time to explain every medication change to our family. His compassionate approach made a frightening situation manageable, and Dad is now recovering beautifully at home.
Internal Medicine Specialists for Pernicious Anemia
Explore experienced internal medicine specialists who regularly perform pernicious anemia and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 26 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Siliguri
- 22 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Hebbal
- 17 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Hebbal
- 6 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Kamineni Hospital Vijayawada
- 15 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Kamineni Hospital King Koti
- 38 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon
- 27 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon
- 24 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon
- 22 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon
- 15 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Gurgaon
- 16 Years Experience
- Breast surgeon
Cytecare Hospital Bangalore
- 38 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Jaipur
- 31 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad
- 19 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Cytecare Hospital Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad
- 14 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad
- 51 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road
- 49 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 46 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Medanta Hospital Gurgaon
- 39 Years Experience
- Internal Medicine Specialist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road