pernicious anemia

[calif.gal]

I was diagnosed with PA 3 years ago,and get monthly shots. My Neurologist said that I don't have an autoimmune disease,but according to this site I do. What exactly is an autoimmune disease, and do I have it? What does it mean for my future health?

[whiteorchid]

I'm wondering about this as well.  So far my b12 serum levels are normal but I've read that a serum test is not a good indicator of whether the b12 is being absorbed.  My sister has PA and gets injections.  I have a thyroid disorder (autoimmune) as well as high bilirubin levels (gilbert's syndrome) and from my understanding b12 and bilirubin are related to the liver - so it makes me wonder if I have PA.

I'm going to the doctor this week to get further testing because I've had weird symptoms (tingling/numbness in legs/feet), dizziness, and other symptoms since a neck trauma in June.  It could just be anxiety but I believe b12 can be depleted even more during times of stress, so getting additional b12 injections couldn't hurt, right?!

Calif-gal - basically an autoimmune disease is where your body starts attacking itself by mistake.  Common autoimmune diseases are arthritis, thyroid disorders, lupus, MS.    What are your symptoms of PA?

[Mozartcowgirl]

Calif and mars.. you could please tell me your symptoms that you both had? what type of doc did you see to get diagnosed? THANKYOU!!

[Mars24]

I was also diagnosed with PA 13 years ago.  I have a shot of B12 injection every 3 months.  I also have autoimmune hepatitis.  You might ask about having a Liver Function Test (LFT) done.