What condition arises when there is a deficiency of intrinsic factor?

Pernicious anemia is specifically linked to a deficiency of intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein produced by the stomach. Intrinsic factor is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the intestines. When intrinsic factor is absent or deficient, the body cannot effectively absorb vitamin B12, leading to a decrease in the production of healthy red blood cells. This results in pernicious anemia, characterized by large, malformed red blood cells and a decrease in overall red blood cell count.

The other conditions listed stem from different deficiencies. Hemolytic anemia involves the premature destruction of red blood cells, often due to autoimmune conditions or external factors. Iron deficiency anemia occurs due to insufficient iron, essential for hemoglobin synthesis, leading to smaller, less effective red blood cells. Folate deficiency anemia is associated with inadequate levels of folate, necessary for DNA synthesis in red blood cell production. Each of these conditions has a distinct etiology and treatment, emphasizing the unique role of intrinsic factor in pernicious anemia.