A patient has a decreased vitamin B₁₂ assay. The Schilling test detects labeled vitamin B₁₂ in the urine when it is given with IF. What is the correct interpretation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Schilling test is used to diagnose pernicious anemia (PA), which is a type of vitamin B12 deficiency that occurs due to a lack of intrinsic factor (IF) in the stomach. If labeled vitamin B12 is detected in the urine when given with IF during the Schilling test, it indicates that the patient has PA. Therefore, choice B is the correct interpretation. Choice A suggests that the vitamin B12 assay may be incorrect, but there is no evidence to support this from the information provided. Choice C suggests that the patient has a vitamin B12 deficiency, but it does not clarify if it is due to PA or another cause. Choice D suggests performing a gastric analysis, which may be helpful in diagnosing PA, but it is not necessary to determine the result of the Schilling test.

A Patient Has a Decreased Vitamin B12 Assay

A Patient Has a Decreased Vitamin B₁₂ Assay