Resumen
- Classically presents with megaloblastic anaemia, but can also present with peripheral neuropathy and other neuropsychiatric complaints.
- Older people, patients with chronic malabsorption, patients with a history of gastric resection or bypass, and those taking certain medicines (metformin, proton-pump inhibitors) are at risk.
- Early diagnosis is critical in preventing and halting the progression of neurological disorders such as peripheral neuropathy and dementia.
- Methylmalonic acid and homocysteine levels may help to diagnose vitamin B12 deficiency at an early, asymptomatic state.
- Once vitamin B12 deficiency is confirmed, the cause should be searched for.
- High-dose oral therapy may be as effective as parenteral vitamin B12 in the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency.
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Actualizado por última vez: sep 12, 2012
