Absence Of Intrinsic Factor C4021641
A condition where the stomach cannot produce a protein needed to absorb vitamin B12. This leads to anemia and nerve problems if untreated. B12 injections are the main treatment.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- K76.9
- ICD-11
- DA00.0
- Body system
- gastrointestinal
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Abdominal pain or nausea
(gastrointestinal)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Fatigue
(gastrointestinal)Glossitis
(gastrointestinal)Peripheral neuropathy
(gastrointestinal)Anemia
(gastrointestinal)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Cyanocobalamin Injections
Regular intramuscular or subcutaneous B12 injections to bypass intrinsic factor deficiency and maintain adequate serum B12 levels.
GI disease management
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
High-Dose Oral Cyanocobalamin
Massive dose oral B12 supplementation that may be absorbed through passive diffusion when intrinsic factor is absent.
Additional treatment options
Serum B12 and Hematologic Monitoring
Regular blood tests including complete blood count, B12 levels, methylmalonic acid, and homocysteine to assess treatment adequacy.
monitoringB12-Rich Food Supplementation
Encouragement of B12-fortified foods and animal products to support overall B12 status alongside medical therapy.
dietaryIntrinsic Factor Antibody Testing
Diagnostic testing to confirm intrinsic factor deficiency etiology and differentiate from other causes of B12 malabsorption.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Absence Of Intrinsic Factor C4021641?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Shevell MI, Rosenblatt DS. Consensus guidelines for the management of congenital cobalamin deficiency. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2022.
Wongthong S, Jitpiboon S, Kaojaroen S. Intrinsic factor and cubilin in vitamin B12 absorption: mechanisms and clinical implications. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2021.
Martinelli V, Ferretti F, Bianchi E, et al. Long-term outcomes of early-onset cobalamin deficiency due to intrinsic factor mutations: a multicenter prospective cohort study. Lancet Haematol. 2023.
Patel D, Nair PM, Cruz-Herrera A, et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis of genetic causes of megaloblastic anemia presenting in childhood. Blood Rev. 2020.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy