Congenital Pernicious Anemia - Congenital Lack of Intrinsic Factor

What can be done to prevent the disease?

There are no known ways to prevent a congenital lack of intrinsic factor.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Most children have no long-term effects if the congenital lack of intrinsic factor is diagnosed and treated promptly. If treatment is delayed, permanent damage to the nervous system may occur. This may include numbness, weakness, and cognitive impairments, or an impaired ability to think logically. This damage may not go away with treatment.

What are the risks to others?

A congenital lack of intrinsic factor is not contagious. However, it is usually inherited. Genetic counseling may be helpful to couples with a family history of the disorder.