Question

Most common type of megaloblastic anemia caused by malabsorption of vitamin B₁₂ and characterized by decreased production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and a deficiency of intrinsic factor is

• A. Iron deficiency anemia
• B. Sideroblastic anemia
• C. Pernicions anemia
• D. Aplastic anemia

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The question asks for the most common type of megaloblastic anemia caused by malabsorption of vitamin B₁₂. This condition is characterized by decreased production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach and a deficiency of intrinsic factor.

Explanation:

• Pernicious anemia: This is a type of megaloblastic anemia, commonly resulting from vitamin B₁₂ deficiency due to malabsorption. The deficiency often arises from a lack of intrinsic factor, which is necessary for vitamin B₁₂ absorption in the intestine.
• In pernicious anemia, there's typically gastric atrophy, which leads to reduced production of hydrochloric acid (achlorhydria).

Reasoning:

• Iron deficiency anemia: This type results from a deficiency of iron and is not related to vitamin B₁₂ absorption.
• Sideroblastic anemia: This is characterized by the bone marrow's inability to produce normal red cells, not by vitamin B₁₂ issues.
• Aplastic anemia: Involves bone marrow failure and impacts the production of all blood cells, not specifically related to vitamin B₁₂ absorption.
• Pernicious anemia: The symptoms and causes mentioned in the question best align with pernicious anemia because it directly ties to malabsorption of vitamin B₁₂, decreased stomach acid production, and lack of intrinsic factor.

Conclusion:

The correct answer is Pernicious anemia as it fits the criteria provided in the question: malabsorption of vitamin B₁₂, reduced hydrochloric acid, and deficiency of intrinsic factor.