I.Mrs. Swenson, age 64, was taken to an urgent care center after she fell getting off a bus. While her abrasions were being bandaged, she said, “My feet are numb and tingly, and I cannot always tell where they are.” In answer to questions, she reported an 8-pound weight loss in the past 3 months, poor appetite, indigestion, sore tongue, and constant fatigue. Pallor was noted.
Laboratory Results
Blood glucose, serum electrolytes, BUN, and creatinine normal
Hemoglobin 8.0 g/dL (low) and hematocrit 32% (low)
Macrocytic normochromic RBCs
Mrs. Swenson was directed to see her physician, who diagnosed pernicious anemia after additional testing.
1.What is the normal process of absorption of dietary vitamin B12?
2.What caused Mrs. Swenson’s pernicious anemia?
3.What is the technical description of erythrocyte size and color in pernicious anemia?
4.How are Mrs. Swenson’s numbness and tingling related to pernicious anemia?
5.Mrs. Swenson is being treated with cobalamin (vitamin B12) injections. After her blood vitamin B12 level is brought back to normal, can her cobalamin be discontinued? Why or why not?
II.Jim, age of 5, was displaying signs of increased irritability and a decreased interest in play. His family was concerned so they made an appointment to visit the pediatrician. After a series of tests, Jim was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia (IDA).
1.What are the possible causes of Jim’s iron deficiency?
2.What laboratory tests are used to detect iron levels in the body?
3.What can be done to correct Jim’s iron deficiency?