What deficiency is associated with pernicious anemia?

Pernicious anemia is primarily associated with a deficiency in Vitamin B12. This condition occurs when the body is unable to absorb enough Vitamin B12, which is essential for producing healthy red blood cells. Normally, an intrinsic factor produced in the stomach is necessary for the absorption of Vitamin B12 in the intestines. In pernicious anemia, either the intrinsic factor is lacking or there is an autoimmune reaction against it, leading to impaired absorption of this vital nutrient.

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and the production of myelin, which covers and protects nerves. A deficiency results not only in reduced red blood cell production but also affects nerve function, potentially leading to neurological symptoms alongside the typical signs of anemia.

While other vitamins and minerals (like iron and folate) are important for different types of anemia, they are not directly linked to pernicious anemia, which specifically arises from a lack of Vitamin B12 absorption due to intrinsic factor deficiency.