Pernicious anemia and megaloblastic anemia are both types of anemia characterized by a deficiency of healthy red blood cells. While there are many similarities between the two, there are also some key differences.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys the stomach cells responsible for producing intrinsic factor – a protein necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to the production of abnormally large red blood cells that can't function properly, resulting in anemia. Symptoms of pernicious anemia include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
Megaloblastic Anemia
Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells. This condition is caused by a deficiency of folate or vitamin B12, which are essential for the production of healthy red blood cells. Symptoms of megaloblastic anemia include fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and tingling or numbness in the hands and feet.
Differences between Pernicious and Megaloblastic Anemia
The primary difference between pernicious and megaloblastic anemia is the cause. Pernicious anemia is caused by an autoimmune disorder that attacks the stomach cells responsible for producing intrinsic factor, while megaloblastic anemia is caused by a deficiency of folate or vitamin B12. Additionally, while both conditions cause anemia, megaloblastic anemia is also characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells.