Techniques for pernicious anemia diagnosis with radiocyanocobalamin

Abstract This paper represents an attempt to delineate the optimal conditions for the use of cobalt-labelled B 12 in the diagnosis of pernicious anemia and in the testing of intrinsic factor samples. Data presented indicate that the optimal amount of total B 12 administered should be something of the order of 0.5 to 0.7 μg, with the activity used running between 0.1 and 0.5 μc, depending upon specific counting setup. A very simple arrangement for counting a liter of the urine avoids the necessity for evaporation or concentration of samples. In testing the intrinsic factor, levels used should preferably be on the under side of what is clinically regarded as a clinically effective dose. Data thus secured seem to be in agreement with the official clinical response test, and particularly if subsequent flushing doses are employed in questionable cases, the test would seem to pose no significant hazard to the patient or individual being used for clinical evaluation.