For pernicious anemia, which statement reflects appropriate long-term management?

For pernicious anemia, which statement reflects appropriate long-term management?

• A. I can miss injections if I feel better
• B. I will need to take vitamin B12 injections for the rest of my life
• C. I will take the vitamin B12 injections until my strength returns
• D. I can take a vitamin B12 injection when I feel tired or fatigued

Answer: (B)

Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, which is needed to absorb vitamin B12 from the gut. Because absorption is impaired, replacing B12 must bypass the digestive system and is given by injections. The underlying deficiency is chronic, so most people need ongoing B12 injections for life to keep blood counts and nerve function normal. Stopping injections or taking them only when you feel better allows deficiency to recur, risking renewed anemia and potential irreversible neurologic damage. Therefore the long-term plan is regular, ongoing injections on a set schedule, even if you feel well, rather than intermittent or symptom-driven dosing.

Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, which is needed to absorb vitamin B12 from the gut. Because absorption is impaired, replacing B12 must bypass the digestive system and is given by injections. The underlying deficiency is chronic, so most people need ongoing B12 injections for life to keep blood counts and nerve function normal. Stopping injections or taking them only when you feel better allows deficiency to recur, risking renewed anemia and potential irreversible neurologic damage. Therefore the long-term plan is regular, ongoing injections on a set schedule, even if you feel well, rather than intermittent or symptom-driven dosing.