A lack of intrinsic factor, leading to a deficiency of vitamin B₁₂ and causing an appearance of large pale cells called macrocytes, is characteristic of ________.

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Pernicious anemia is caused by a lack of intrinsic factor, which is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12. Without vitamin B12, red blood cell production is impaired, resulting in abnormally large pale cells called macrocytes. Aplastic anemia is a rare condition where the body stops producing enough new blood cells, polycythemia is a condition where there is an excessive production of red blood cells, and sickle-cell anemia is an inherited disorder where red blood cells become abnormally shaped and can block small blood vessels.

A Lack of Intrinsic Factor, Leading to a Deficiency of Vitamin