Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Overview

Vitamin B12 Deficiency is when there is a lack of Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) in the body that can manifest with neurological, psychiatric and hematological disorders. Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin that helps synthesize thymine, and hence DNA so in its deficiency, RBC production is slow

Signs and Symptoms

Weakness, Lightheadedness, Palpitations, Paleness, Mild jaundice, Constipation, Diarrhea, Loss of appetite, Swollen and inflamed tongue, Tingling sensation, Numbness, Muscle weakness, Mental disturbances such as depression and memory loss, Behavioural changes

Common Causes

Diet lack of Vitamin B12, Atrophic gastritis, Pernicious anemia, Intestinal disorders such as Crohn's disease or bacterial overgrowth, Certain medications that interferes with absorption of Vitamin B12, Congenital metabolic errors

Risk Factors

Old age of more than 65 years, Gastric surgery, Vegetarian, Pregnancy, Intestinal disorders such as, Crohn's disease or Celiac disease, Certain medication which affects the absorption of vitamins

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count, Serum Vitamin B12, Peripheral blood smear, Reticulocyte count

Treatment and Prevention

Vitamin B12 supplements, Take diet rich in Vitamin B12, Treatment of the underlying cause