Schillings test

["Hans Richter" <HRICHTER@engr-serv.usc.edu>]

Hi  Radsafers

The Schillings test employs both radioactive vitamin B12 and  cold 
vitamin B12.
The cold vitamin B12 is first injected intramuscularly.  A wait of 
approximately 1 hour allows absorbtion by the liver (storage sites for 
vitamin B12  to fill).    The  Co-57   vitamin B12 is then swallowed.   The 
patient then collects urine for 24 hours.  

The unabsorbed Co-57 vitamin B12  will be in the feces.    The absorbed 
 Co-57  vitamin B12  will not go to storage sites  (already filled)  and be 
passed out in the urine.   

Pernicious Anemia is when the gut cannot absorb Vitamin B12 (cold 
or hot).   The gut cannot absorb the vitamin  without the "intrinsic 
factor"  a protein excreted by the stomach.    

Regards,

Hans Richter
USC
hrichter@engr-serv.usc.edu