Diphyllobothrium latum und perniziöse Anämie

Abstract

The worm in the gastro-intestinal tract competes with the host for Vit. B12 and probably other hemopoietically active substances. The deficiency thus produced is enhanced by inadequate supply of extrinsic factor or diminished production of intrinsic factor. All these conditions must be present for a long period of time to result in pernicious anemia. In certain cases a predisposition for pernicious anemia may remain when the worm infection is removed.