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Pernicious anaemia in Africans
1Department of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria.
Clinical and Laboratory Haematology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Pernicious anemia, once thought rare in Africans, may be increasing. This study highlights potential underdiagnosis and the need for greater awareness in medical education.
Area of Science:
- Hematology
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
Background:
- Pernicious anemia (PA) is an autoimmune condition characterized by vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Traditionally considered rare in African populations, its true incidence may be underestimated.
Observation:
- This study reviewed ten cases of PA diagnosed over 15 years (1973-1988) in a Lagos hospital.
- Patients' ages ranged from 34 to 67 years (mean 53.6), with a 6:4 female-to-male ratio.
- Observed complications included gastric carcinoma, myelopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and pigmentary changes.
Findings:
- Underdiagnosis may stem from assumptions of rarity and empirical treatment of chronic anemias.
- A notable increase in diagnoses occurred in the latter years of the study period (7 cases in the last 3 years).
- This suggests a potentially rising incidence of PA in Africans.
Implications:
- Pernicious anemia may be more prevalent in African populations than previously believed.
- Enhanced medical education is crucial to improve recognition and diagnosis of PA.
- Careful management of chronic anemias is recommended to avoid overlooking PA.