Glossitis and the pre-anaemic stage of pernicious anaemia; diagnosis by simple methods

The buccal mucosa in anaemia

The histological features of the buccal mucosa have been examined in 50 cases of iron-deficiency anaemia, 14 cases of megaloblastic anaemia, and 50 normal subjects. Differences between the anaemic and normal groups have been found and in some anaemic patients striking morphological changes have been seen. These might be due to a direct effect of iron or vitamin B(12) deficiency on the metabolism of the epithelial cells.

Nonspecific stomatitis-a presenting sign in pernicious anemia

Recurrent nonspecific stomatitis may be an oral sign of pernicious anemia. Repeated examinations and blood studies are important when the cause of stomatitis is not clear on initial evaluation of a complaint of sore mouth. Three cases of pernicious anemia are presented to illustrate the similarities and differences in oral signs of pernicious anemia.