Health encyclopaedia

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Diagnosis of B12 deficiency

Your GP will normally carry out a physical examination to look for signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, such as a rapid pulse and pale skin. A blood test may be taken to check the number and appearance of red blood cells. People with a B12 deficiency have large red blood cells that look unusual. Laboratory tests can also be used to measure the level of vitamin B12 in the blood.

Sometimes, your GP may want to check your blood for intrinsic factor antibody levels. This test is used to identify whether you have pernicious anaemia, as most people who lack intrinsic factor have these antibodies in their blood.

Occasionally, a sample (biopsy) of bone marrow may be taken to confirm the diagnosis. It can be used to rule out other causes of anaemia and red cell abnormalities.

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