gastroscopy

Dear Doctor,

I recently visited an allergist because of symptoms of sneezing, stuffy nose and whitish tongue.

I had all the allergy tests performed and these came back all negative.
Then I was tested for thyroid TSH basal which was 0.21.
Another test for intrinsic factor / vitamin B12 deficiency was made and came back with two results, one was 218 for parietal cells and the other was 686 for Intrinsic factor. A further test for Vitamin B12 deficiency resulted in 96. All of these are out of the normal ranges and results supposedly point to Pernicious Anemia

The allergist has recommended I go for a gastroscopy.

I am concerned and anxious about taking such a major (endoscopy) test. My question is: do you think it is necessary for such a test based on the above results combined with symptoms of sneezing, stuffy nose and whitish tongue?

Thank you for your help,

Kind regards,

Trevor

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Hello - thanks for asking your question.

One of the causes of pernicious anemia is chronic gastritis which leads to a decrease in intrinsic factor production.  Chronic gastritis is associated with an increased risk of intestinal cancer or gastric carcinoid tumors.  This is why the diagnosis of gastritis should be confirmed via upper endoscopy.  

An upper endoscopy, although uncomfortable, is a fairly common procedure.  Medication is typically given to improve the tolerability of the procedure.  I would recommend undergoing the endoscopy.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[Trevor]

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