Skip to main content
Supplement Research and Comparison Website•Best Price Guarantee
Supplement Research and Comparison Website
Pillser
Search
Sign UpLog In

Navigating Lab Tests and Supplementation Concerns for Pernicious Anemia

A user is frustrated with delayed lab orders for potential pernicious anemia symptoms. The assistant provides insight on B12, MMA, and IF tests, and advises discussing B12 supplementation plans with a hematologist to ensure accurate lab results and manage symptoms effectively.

  • Why is this so difficult??? And question about labs/supplementing

    I have been begging my primary and cardio to order labs (B12, Folate, MMA, and IF). Literally begging because I feel AWFUL. Other labs and symptoms have pointed to pernicious anemia. My hematologist appt is 12/2 which isnt far off but I feel miserable and want to at least try to see if my methyl B12 might help in the meantime (worst symptoms right now - palpitations, anxiety, and absolute exhaustion with palps bother me the most right now). They are actling like I am requesting opioids!!! This is insane.

    Finally, I messaged the hematologist I will be seeing and explained that I would like these tests ran so that I can take some b12 in the meantime without ruining the labs with false numbers. She ordered them within the hour! However, she only ordered B12 and Folate. Will taking oral B12 mess with the MMA and IF labs if she orders those on the 2nd??

    Thank you so much for all of your help!!!

  • It sounds like you're dealing with a frustrating and challenging health situation. I'm glad to hear that your hematologist was able to order some of the labs for you.

    Regarding your question about taking oral B12 and its potential impact on lab results:

    1. B12 and MMA (Methylmalonic Acid): Taking oral B12 could potentially affect the results of an MMA test. MMA is a functional marker of B12 deficiency, and taking supplemental B12 might lower MMA levels, even if there is an underlying deficiency. This could lead to results that are less reflective of your true B12 status prior to supplementation1.

    2. B12 and IF (Intrinsic Factor) Antibodies: Taking oral B12 is unlikely to affect the results of the intrinsic factor antibody test. This test checks for antibodies that are specifically related to pernicious anemia, which is an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly targets intrinsic factor, a protein necessary for B12 absorption. The presence or absence of these antibodies isn't directly influenced by B12 supplementation2.

    It's generally advisable to communicate with your healthcare provider about your supplement use, especially before lab tests, to ensure they interpret the results accurately.

    If you're feeling unwell and considering supplementing with methyl B12 before your hematology appointment, it might be helpful to discuss this plan with your hematologist. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific case and help balance the urgency of your symptoms with the need for accurate diagnostic information.

    Footnotes

    1. "Effects of vitamin B12 supplementation on plasma and urine metabolite concentrations." Journal of Nutrition. ↩

    2. "The diagnostic utility of intrinsic factor antibody testing." Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine. ↩

New Topic

Browse Related Questions

Back to top