Vitamin B12 is very important vitamin required by the body for the healthy functioning of nervous system, spinal cord and healthy formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is stored in liver when excess quantity is taken in food for three years.
Causes-
Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs in following cases-
1. Over growth of bacteria in body.
2. Tapeworm infestation.
3. Lack of intrinsic factor.
4. Malabsorption syndrome.
5. Crohn’s disease.
6. Excessive alcohol intake.
7. Inadequate intake of vitamin B12.
8. Transcobalamin II deficiency.
Symptoms-
1. Anemia.
2. Vertigo, fatigue, tiredness.
3. Pale skin, paleness of mucous membranes and conjunctiva, paleness of palms of hands.
4. Splenomegaly.
5. Megaloblastic macrocytic anemia.
6. Peripheral neuropathy.
7. Dementia.
8. Glossitis.
9. Red and sore tongue.
10. Diarrhea.
11. Infertility in females.
Investigations-
1. Haematocrit test.
2. Schilling test.
3. Serum vitamin B12 test.
4. Blood test.
5. Test serum level of methylmalonic acid and homocysteine.
6. WBC, TLC count.
Management-
Following therapy is given under doctor’s supervision-
1. Treat underlying cause of vitamin B12 deficiency.
2. Vitamin B12 oral therapy.
3. Eat diet rich in vitamin B12.
4. Iron therapy along with vitamin B12 therapy.
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