Psychosomatic Medicine 21:23-27 (1959)
© 1959 American Psychosomatic Society

Role of Depression in the Production of Illness in Pernicious Anemia

¹ Staunton Clinic, Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pa.

A pilot study in ten patients with pernicious anemia revealed a common denominator of depression and recent loss prior to the onset of illness. There was no evidence of a paranoid core to these patients' personalities. This is contrary to classical descriptions.

It is suggested that depression itself may be an etiologic factor in the production of pernicious anemia by reducing intrinsic factor below the critical level required for normal erythropoiesis. A genetic factor leaves certain people prone to such events.

It is urged that the physiology of depression be worked out, as has that for stress and anxiety. It is further suggested that depression be more fully described psychologically.