Vitamin B12 deficiency is a potentially serious condition that can affect multiple body systems. It presents as macrocytic anemia but can also cause neurological abnormalities and gastrointestinal issues. Vitamin B12 is essential for DNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. It is absorbed in the ileum with the help of intrinsic factor. Causes of deficiency include pernicious anemia, gastrointestinal disorders, vegetarian diets, and certain medications. Deficiency is diagnosed based on low B12 levels and hematological and neurological examination findings.
This document discusses vitamin B12 deficiency. It covers the roles of vitamin B12, absorption, causes of deficiency, clinical presentation, laboratory findings, diagnosis, and treatment. The key points are:
- Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin involved in DNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. Deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia and neurological issues.
- Absorption requires intrinsic factor in the ileum. Causes include pernicious anemia, gastric issues, malabsorption, vegetarian diets.
- Symptoms include anemia, neurological changes, gastrointestinal issues. Diagnosis involves low B12 levels and response to parenteral B12 treatment. Lifelong B12 replacement
Megaloblastic anaemia (lecture for v year mbbs)mona aziz
油
Megaloblastic anemia results from vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency. It causes impaired DNA synthesis and nucleocytoplasmic asynchrony in proliferating cells. Deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folic acid lead to elevated homocysteine and impaired conversion of uracil to thymidine, arresting cell development. This causes megaloblastic changes notably in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract. Neurological changes in B12 deficiency are due to demyelination. Investigations show macrocytic anemia and megaloblastic bone marrow changes. Treatment involves vitamin B12 injections and oral folic acid supplementation.
Megaloblastic anemia is caused by a defect in DNA synthesis due to deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate. It is characterized by abnormal bone marrow erythroblasts with delayed nuclear development. Causes include dietary deficiencies, malabsorption, increased cell turnover, and drugs. Treatment involves transfusion, vitamin B12 injections or oral folic acid supplementation depending on the underlying deficiency.
This document discusses anemias caused by diminished red blood cell production. It covers various inherited and acquired causes, including nutritional deficiencies, bone marrow failure disorders, infiltrative bone marrow disorders, and decreased erythropoietin production. It focuses in depth on megaloblastic anemias caused by vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies, providing details on the mechanisms, morphology, and clinical features of pernicious anemia specifically.
Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies can cause megaloblastic anemia due to impaired DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 deficiency specifically can also cause neurological manifestations like peripheral neuropathy. Diagnosis involves blood tests showing macrocytic anemia and low vitamin levels. Treatment is with high dose vitamin B12 injections initially then maintenance doses to correct the deficiency. Folate deficiency has similar blood features but no neurological involvement, and is treated with oral folic acid supplementation.
This document summarizes folic acid deficiency, including its physiologic roles, clinical presentation, investigations, treatment, and prevention. It notes that folic acid is important for DNA and RNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. Deficiency can cause macrocytic anemia and megaloblastic changes in the bone marrow. It is investigated through CBC, serum and RBC folate levels, and metabolic testing. Treatment involves oral folic acid supplementation.
This document summarizes folic acid deficiency, including its physiologic roles, clinical presentation, investigations, treatment, and prevention. It notes that folic acid is important for DNA and RNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. Deficiency can cause macrocytic anemia and megaloblastic changes in the bone marrow. It is investigated through CBC, serum and red blood cell folate levels, and metabolites. Treatment involves oral folic acid supplementation.
This document discusses megaloblastic anemias, which are caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid. These deficiencies impair DNA synthesis during erythropoiesis, leading to large, abnormally developed red blood cells. Key findings include macrocytic anemia, hypersegmented neutrophils, and megaloblasts visible in bone marrow samples showing nuclear-cytoplasmic asynchrony. Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune disorder causing vitamin B12 deficiency, is described. Treatment involves vitamin B12 or folate supplementation.
Megaloblastic anemias are caused by an impairment of DNA synthesis leading to large, abnormally shaped red blood cells and their precursors. Pernicious anemia is a specific megaloblastic anemia caused by an autoimmune destruction of gastric parietal cells, resulting in impaired absorption of vitamin B12 and deficient DNA synthesis. It is characterized by megaloblastic changes in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract, and the presence of autoantibodies against intrinsic factor and gastric proton pumps. Left untreated, the impaired hematopoiesis leads to pancytopenia and anemia.
A condition in which the blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells.
Anaemia results from a lack of red blood cells or dysfunctional red blood cells in the body. This leads to reduced oxygen flow to the body's organs.
Megaloblastic anemia is caused by impaired DNA synthesis leading to ineffective red blood cell production. It results from vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies. Vitamin B12 is only produced by microorganisms and is obtained through animal products in the diet, while folate is found in many plant foods. Both are required as cofactors in important metabolic reactions. Deficiencies can be due to inadequate intake, impaired absorption, or genetic disorders affecting metabolism. Symptoms include megaloblastic changes in blood cells and pancytopenia.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in India, especially among vegetarians and the elderly. It causes hematological, neurological, gastrointestinal and vascular issues. The document discusses causes of B12 deficiency including pernicious anemia and intestinal malabsorption. Clinical manifestations and investigations for diagnosis are explained. Treatment involves lifelong B12 supplementation through injections or high dose oral supplements. Preventive measures for high risk groups like vegetarians and post-gastric surgery patients are also covered.
This document discusses megaloblastic anemia, specifically focusing on vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies. It defines megaloblastic anemia and describes the mechanisms, causes, metabolism, functions, and pathophysiology of vitamin B12 and folate. It also discusses pernicious anemia, masked megaloblastic anemia, and provides diagrams of vitamin B12 absorption, transport, and biochemical functions. The key points covered are the roles of vitamin B12 and folate in DNA synthesis, the resulting impaired cell proliferation and megaloblast formation in bone marrow, and the clinical effects of ineffective hematopoiesis.
Megaloblastic Anaemia - Vit B12 deficiencyShahin Hameed
油
This document discusses megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. It covers the normal metabolism and absorption of vitamin B12, the causes of deficiency including pernicious anemia, clinical features such as macrocytic anemia and neurological changes, diagnostic tests, and management with parenteral B12 injections. Deficiency results in defective DNA synthesis and affects all proliferating cells.
Information about megaloblastic anemia and it's etiology and its classification.
Vitmain b12 deficiencies
Folic acid deficiencies
Signs and symptoms of megaloblastic anemia
Neural tube defects
This document discusses megaloblastic anemias, which result from deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate. It causes ineffective hematopoiesis affecting all blood cell lines, particularly red blood cells (RBCs). Diagnosis is based on a complete blood count and peripheral smear showing a macrocytic anemia with large, oval RBCs and other abnormalities. Treatment involves treating the underlying deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate. The document also discusses nonmegaloblastic macrocytosis, which can occur due to other clinical factors unrelated to B12/folate deficiencies.
Megaloblastic anemia is characterized by large, immature red blood cells caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. It is seen in specific populations like the elderly, alcoholics, and those with gastric issues or taking certain medications. Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia caused by lack of intrinsic factor leading to vitamin B12 deficiency. Diagnosis involves blood tests of vitamin B12, folate, homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels. Treatment is vitamin B12 injections or high oral doses. Medical nutrition therapy focuses on vitamin B12 and folate rich foods. Other nutritional anemias include copper deficiency, protein-energy malnutrition, and vitamin E or pyrid
This document provides an overview of anemia, including its definition, cut-off levels used to diagnose it, common causes, classification approaches, and key details about specific types like iron deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemias, sickle cell disease, and thalassemias. It covers diagnostic testing and clinical manifestations, emphasizing the importance of considering a patient's red blood cell morphology, erythropoiesis, and underlying pathophysiology when evaluating the cause of an anemia.
Megaloblastic anemias are a group of disorders characterized by large, immature red blood cells in the bone marrow. They are caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency which prevents DNA synthesis. Common causes include pernicious anemia, malabsorption, medication use, and dietary deficiencies. Patients present with anemia, gastrointestinal symptoms, and neurological findings. Diagnosis involves blood tests showing low B12/folate and high MCV with hypersegmented neutrophils and megaloblasts on smear. Treatment is with lifelong B12 injections or high dose oral supplementation for B12 deficiency and oral folate for folate deficiency.
Megaloblastic anemias are disorders characterized by defective nuclear maturation caused by impaired DNA synthesis, usually due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies. Vitamin B12 is produced by microorganisms and fungi and is present in animal foods. It plays an important role in DNA synthesis and the Krebs cycle. Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia characterized by gastric parietal cell atrophy leading to decreased intrinsic factor and gastric juices, resulting in vitamin B12 malabsorption.
This document summarizes folic acid deficiency, including its physiologic roles, clinical presentation, investigations, treatment, and prevention. It notes that folic acid is important for DNA and RNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. Deficiency can cause macrocytic anemia and megaloblastic changes in the bone marrow. It is investigated through CBC, serum and RBC folate levels, and metabolic testing. Treatment involves oral folic acid supplementation.
This document summarizes folic acid deficiency, including its physiologic roles, clinical presentation, investigations, treatment, and prevention. It notes that folic acid is important for DNA and RNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. Deficiency can cause macrocytic anemia and megaloblastic changes in the bone marrow. It is investigated through CBC, serum and red blood cell folate levels, and metabolites. Treatment involves oral folic acid supplementation.
This document discusses megaloblastic anemias, which are caused by a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid. These deficiencies impair DNA synthesis during erythropoiesis, leading to large, abnormally developed red blood cells. Key findings include macrocytic anemia, hypersegmented neutrophils, and megaloblasts visible in bone marrow samples showing nuclear-cytoplasmic asynchrony. Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune disorder causing vitamin B12 deficiency, is described. Treatment involves vitamin B12 or folate supplementation.
Megaloblastic anemias are caused by an impairment of DNA synthesis leading to large, abnormally shaped red blood cells and their precursors. Pernicious anemia is a specific megaloblastic anemia caused by an autoimmune destruction of gastric parietal cells, resulting in impaired absorption of vitamin B12 and deficient DNA synthesis. It is characterized by megaloblastic changes in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract, and the presence of autoantibodies against intrinsic factor and gastric proton pumps. Left untreated, the impaired hematopoiesis leads to pancytopenia and anemia.
A condition in which the blood doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells.
Anaemia results from a lack of red blood cells or dysfunctional red blood cells in the body. This leads to reduced oxygen flow to the body's organs.
Megaloblastic anemia is caused by impaired DNA synthesis leading to ineffective red blood cell production. It results from vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies. Vitamin B12 is only produced by microorganisms and is obtained through animal products in the diet, while folate is found in many plant foods. Both are required as cofactors in important metabolic reactions. Deficiencies can be due to inadequate intake, impaired absorption, or genetic disorders affecting metabolism. Symptoms include megaloblastic changes in blood cells and pancytopenia.
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in India, especially among vegetarians and the elderly. It causes hematological, neurological, gastrointestinal and vascular issues. The document discusses causes of B12 deficiency including pernicious anemia and intestinal malabsorption. Clinical manifestations and investigations for diagnosis are explained. Treatment involves lifelong B12 supplementation through injections or high dose oral supplements. Preventive measures for high risk groups like vegetarians and post-gastric surgery patients are also covered.
This document discusses megaloblastic anemia, specifically focusing on vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies. It defines megaloblastic anemia and describes the mechanisms, causes, metabolism, functions, and pathophysiology of vitamin B12 and folate. It also discusses pernicious anemia, masked megaloblastic anemia, and provides diagrams of vitamin B12 absorption, transport, and biochemical functions. The key points covered are the roles of vitamin B12 and folate in DNA synthesis, the resulting impaired cell proliferation and megaloblast formation in bone marrow, and the clinical effects of ineffective hematopoiesis.
Megaloblastic Anaemia - Vit B12 deficiencyShahin Hameed
油
This document discusses megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. It covers the normal metabolism and absorption of vitamin B12, the causes of deficiency including pernicious anemia, clinical features such as macrocytic anemia and neurological changes, diagnostic tests, and management with parenteral B12 injections. Deficiency results in defective DNA synthesis and affects all proliferating cells.
Information about megaloblastic anemia and it's etiology and its classification.
Vitmain b12 deficiencies
Folic acid deficiencies
Signs and symptoms of megaloblastic anemia
Neural tube defects
This document discusses megaloblastic anemias, which result from deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate. It causes ineffective hematopoiesis affecting all blood cell lines, particularly red blood cells (RBCs). Diagnosis is based on a complete blood count and peripheral smear showing a macrocytic anemia with large, oval RBCs and other abnormalities. Treatment involves treating the underlying deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate. The document also discusses nonmegaloblastic macrocytosis, which can occur due to other clinical factors unrelated to B12/folate deficiencies.
Megaloblastic anemia is characterized by large, immature red blood cells caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency. It is seen in specific populations like the elderly, alcoholics, and those with gastric issues or taking certain medications. Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia caused by lack of intrinsic factor leading to vitamin B12 deficiency. Diagnosis involves blood tests of vitamin B12, folate, homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels. Treatment is vitamin B12 injections or high oral doses. Medical nutrition therapy focuses on vitamin B12 and folate rich foods. Other nutritional anemias include copper deficiency, protein-energy malnutrition, and vitamin E or pyrid
This document provides an overview of anemia, including its definition, cut-off levels used to diagnose it, common causes, classification approaches, and key details about specific types like iron deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemias, sickle cell disease, and thalassemias. It covers diagnostic testing and clinical manifestations, emphasizing the importance of considering a patient's red blood cell morphology, erythropoiesis, and underlying pathophysiology when evaluating the cause of an anemia.
Megaloblastic anemias are a group of disorders characterized by large, immature red blood cells in the bone marrow. They are caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency which prevents DNA synthesis. Common causes include pernicious anemia, malabsorption, medication use, and dietary deficiencies. Patients present with anemia, gastrointestinal symptoms, and neurological findings. Diagnosis involves blood tests showing low B12/folate and high MCV with hypersegmented neutrophils and megaloblasts on smear. Treatment is with lifelong B12 injections or high dose oral supplementation for B12 deficiency and oral folate for folate deficiency.
Megaloblastic anemias are disorders characterized by defective nuclear maturation caused by impaired DNA synthesis, usually due to vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies. Vitamin B12 is produced by microorganisms and fungi and is present in animal foods. It plays an important role in DNA synthesis and the Krebs cycle. Pernicious anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia characterized by gastric parietal cell atrophy leading to decreased intrinsic factor and gastric juices, resulting in vitamin B12 malabsorption.
Dr. Vincenzo Giordano began his medical career 2011 at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery. Here, he performed complex adult cardiothoracic surgical procedures, significantly enhancing his proficiency in patient critical care, as evidenced by his FCCS certification.
Unit 1: Introduction to Histological and Cytological techniques
Differentiate histology and cytology
Overview on tissue types
Function and components of the compound light microscope
Overview on common Histological Techniques:
o Fixation
o Grossing
o Tissue processing
o Microtomy
o Staining
o Mounting
Application of histology and cytology
Cardiac Arrhythmia definition, classification, normal sinus rhythm, characteristics , types and management with medical ,surgical & nursing, health education and nursing diagnosis for paramedical students.
Acute & Chronic Inflammation, Chemical mediators in Inflammation and Wound he...Ganapathi Vankudoth
油
A complete information of Inflammation, it includes types of Inflammation, purpose of Inflammation, pathogenesis of acute inflammation, chemical mediators in inflammation, types of chronic inflammation, wound healing and Inflammation in skin repair, phases of wound healing, factors influencing wound healing and types of wound healing.
Chair and Presenters Sara A. Hurvitz, MD, FACP, Carey K. Anders, MD, FASCO, and Vyshak Venur, MD, discuss metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer in this CME/NCPD/CPE/AAPA/IPCE activity titled Fine-Tuning the Selection and Sequencing of HER2-Targeting Therapies in HER2-Positive MBC With and Without CNS Metastases: Expert Guidance on How to Individualize Therapy Based on Latest Evidence, Disease Features, Treatment Characteristics, and Patient Needs and Preferences. For the full presentation, downloadable Practice Aids, and complete CME/NCPD/CPE/AAPA/IPCE information, and to apply for credit, please visit us at https://bit.ly/4f8sUs7. CME/NCPD/CPE/AAPA/IPCE credit will be available until March 2, 2026.
Non-Invasive ICP Monitoring for NeurosurgeonsDhaval Shukla
油
This presentation delves into the latest advancements in non-invasive intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring techniques, specifically tailored for neurosurgeons. It covers the importance of ICP monitoring in clinical practice, explores various non-invasive methods, and discusses their accuracy, reliability, and clinical applications. Attendees will gain insights into the benefits of non-invasive approaches over traditional invasive methods, including reduced risk of complications and improved patient outcomes. This comprehensive overview is designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of neurosurgeons in managing patients with neurological conditions.
Invasive systems are commonly used for monitoring intracranial pressure (ICP) in traumatic brain injury (TBI) and are considered the gold standard. The availability of invasive ICP monitoring is heterogeneous, and in low- and middle-income settings, these systems are not routinely employed due to high cost or limited accessibility. The aim of this presentation is to develop recommendations to guide monitoring and ICP-driven therapies in TBI using non-invasive ICP (nICP) systems.
The course covers the steps undertaken from tissue collection, reception, fixation,
sectioning, tissue processing and staining. It covers all the general and special
techniques in histo/cytology laboratory. This course will provide the student with the
basic knowledge of the theory and practical aspect in the diagnosis of tumour cells
and non-malignant conditions in body tissues and for cytology focusing on
gynaecological and non-gynaecological samples.
Solubilization in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Concepts, Mechanisms & Enhancement...KHUSHAL CHAVAN
油
This presentation provides an in-depth understanding of solubilization and its critical role in pharmaceutical formulations. It covers:
Definition & Mechanisms of Solubilization
Role of surfactants, micelles, and bile salts in drug solubility
Factors affecting solubilization (pH, polarity, particle size, temperature, etc.)
Methods to enhance drug solubility (Buffers, Co-solvents, Surfactants, Complexation, Solid Dispersions)
Advanced approaches (Polymorphism, Salt Formation, Co-crystallization, Prodrugs)
This resource is valuable for pharmaceutical scientists, formulation experts, regulatory professionals, and students interested in improving drug solubility and bioavailability.
Title: Regulation of Tubular Reabsorption A Comprehensive Overview
Description:
This lecture provides a detailed and structured explanation of the mechanisms regulating tubular reabsorption in the kidneys. It explores how different physiological and hormonal factors influence glomerular filtration and reabsorption rates, ensuring fluid and electrolyte balance in the body.
Who Should Read This?
This presentation is designed for:
鏝 Medical Students (MBBS, BDS, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences) preparing for physiology exams.
鏝 Medical Educators & Professors looking for structured teaching material.
鏝 Healthcare Professionals (doctors, nephrologists, and physiologists) seeking a refresher on renal physiology.
鏝 Postgraduate Students & Researchers in the field of medical sciences and physiology.
What Youll Learn:
Local Regulation of Tubular Reabsorption
鏝 Glomerulo-Tubular Balance its mechanism and clinical significance
鏝 Net reabsorptive forces affecting peritubular capillaries
鏝 Role of peritubular hydrostatic and colloid osmotic pressures
Hormonal Regulation of Tubular Reabsorption
鏝 Effects of Aldosterone, Angiotensin II, ADH, and Natriuretic Peptides
鏝 Clinical conditions like Addisons disease & Conn Syndrome
鏝 Mechanisms of pressure natriuresis and diuresis
Nervous System Regulation
鏝 Sympathetic Nervous System activation and its effects on sodium reabsorption
Clinical Correlations & Case Discussions
鏝 How renal regulation is altered in hypertension, hypotension, and proteinuria
鏝 Comparison of Glomerulo-Tubular Balance vs. Tubulo-Glomerular Feedback
This presentation provides detailed diagrams, flowcharts, and calculations to enhance understanding and retention. Whether you are studying, teaching, or practicing medicine, this lecture will serve as a valuable resource for mastering renal physiology.
Keywords for Easy Search:
#Physiology #RenalPhysiology #TubularReabsorption #GlomeruloTubularBalance #HormonalRegulation #MedicalEducation #Nephrology
Rabies Bali 2008-2020_WRD Webinar_WSAVA 2020_Final.pptxWahid Husein
油
A decade of rabies control programmes in Bali with support from FAO ECTAD Indonesia with Mass Dog Vaccination, Integrated Bite Case Management, Dog Population Management, and Risk Communication as the backbone of the programmes
2. VITAMIN B12
Water-soluble B vitamin
Also called cobalamin (Cbl)
Resistant to cooking and boiling
Synthesized by gut flora
Present in foods derived from animal products
Deficiency is virtually never caused by inadequate intake except in
vegetarians who avoid milk and eggs
The liver stores enough vitamin B12 to last for approximately 3
years and this, together with the enterohepatic circulation, means
that B12 deficiency takes years to become manifest, even if all
dietary intake is stopped or severe B12 malabsorption supervenes
Normal vitamin B12 requirements
Adults : 2.4 mcg per day
Pregnancy : 2.6 mcg per day
Lactation : 2.8 mcg per day
5. VITAMIN B12 ENZYMATIC REACTIONS
1.Vit B12 is essential for the conversion of homocysteine to
methionine
Methionine is needed as a methyl group donor in many
metabolic reactions and for protein synthesis
This reaction is also critical in making tetrahydrofolic acid
(THFA) available for reutilization
In B12 deficiency THFA gets trapped in the methyl form and
a number of one carbon transfer reactions suffer
Purine and pyrimidine synthesis is affected primarily due to
defective one carbon transfer because of folate trap.
The most important of these is inavailability of
thymidylate for DNA production
6. 2.Vit B12 is essential for conversion of methylmalonyl
CoA to succinyl CoA
Important step in propionic acid metabolism
It links the carbohydrate and lipid metabolisms
Responsible for demyelination seen in B12 deficiency
3.Vit B12 is essential for conversion of Methionine to S-
adenosyl methionine
More important in the neurological damage of B12
deficiency, because it is needed in the synthesis of
phospholipids and myelin
8. Physiologic roles of vitamin B12
DNA & RNA synthesis, DNA methylation
Vitamin B12 play a critical role in DNA and RNA
synthesis
B12 deficiency can therefore impair DNA synthesis,
which in turn can cause a cell to arrest in the DNA
synthesis (S) phase of the cell cycle, make DNA
replication errors, and/or undergo apoptotic death
Hematopoiesis
Hematopoietic precursor cells are among the most
rapidly dividing cells in the body and hence are one of
the cell types most sensitive to abnormal DNA synthesis
9. Two major effects of the deficiency on
hematopoiesis
Megaloblastic changes
Caused by slowing of the nuclear division cycle
relative to the cytoplasmic maturation cycle (ie,
nuclear-cytoplasmic dyssynchrony)
Ineffective erythropoiesis
Occurs when there is premature death (eg,
phagocytosis or apoptosis) of the developing
erythropoietic precursor cells in the bone marrow
There may be hypercellularity of the bone marrow
Laboratory findings of hemolysis, including elevated
serum iron, indirect bilirubin, and lactate
dehydrogenase (LDH), and low haptoglobin
The reticulocyte count is typically low
10. Neuronal function
Vitamin B12 deficiency is known to adversely affect
neuronal function, but the exact mechanisms remain
elusive
Reduced methylation of neuronal lipids and neuronal
proteins, such as myelin basic protein, have been
hypothesized to play a role in some of the neurologic
deficits
Myelin basic protein makes up approximately one-third
of myelin, and demyelination in the setting of vitamin B12
deficiency may explain many of the neurologic findings
12. VITAMIN B12 ABSORPTION
Two mechanisms exist for cobalamin absorption
One is passive, occurring equally through buccal,
duodenal, and ileal mucosa; it is rapid but extremely
inefficient, with <1% of an oral dose being absorbed by
this process
The normal physiologic mechanism is active; it occurs
through the ileum and is efficient for small (a few
micrograms) oral doses of cobalamin, and it is mediated
by gastric intrinsic factor (IF)
1. Peptic digestion releases dietary vitamin B12, allowing it
to bind a salivary protein called haptocorrin
2. On entering the duodenum, haptocorrinB12 complexes
are processed by pancreatic proteases; this releases B12,
which attaches to intrinsic factor secreted from the parietal
cells of the gastric fundic mucosa
13. 3. The intrinsic factorB12 complexes pass to the distal ileum
and attach to cubilin, a receptor for intrinsic factor, and are
taken up into enterocytes
4. The absorbed vitamin B12 is transferred across the
basolateral membranes of enterocytes to plasma
transcobalamin, which delivers vitamin B12 to the liver and
other cells of the body
It is stored in the liver, which normally contains reserves
sufficient to support bodily needs for 5 to 20 years
Because of these large liver stores, clinical presentations of
vitamin B12 deficiency typically follow years of
unrecognized malabsorption
The metabolic defects responsible for the anemia of
vitamin B12 deficiency are intertwined with folate
metabolism
14. Vitamin B12 is required for recycling
tetrahydrofolate,which, as described previously, is the
form of folate that is needed for DNA synthesis
In keeping with this relationship, the anemia of vitamin
B12 deficiency is reversed with the administration of
folate
By contrast, folate administration does not prevent
and may in fact worsen certain neurologic symptoms
that are specific to vitamin B12 deficiency
15. Causes of vitamin B12 deficiency
Gastric abnormalities Pancreatitis
Autoantibodies to intrinsic factor or
gastric parietal cells (pernicious
anemia)
Pancreatic insufficiency
Gastrectomy/bariatric surgery Diet
Gastritis, Zollinger - Ellison syndrome Breastfed infant of a mother with
vitamin B12 deficiency
Autoimmune metaplastic atrophic
gastritis
Strict vegan diet
Small bowel disease Vegetarian diet in pregnancy
Malabsorption syndrome Agents that block or impair
absorption
Ileal resection or bypass Neomycin
IBD (eg, Crohn disease) Biguanides (eg, metformin)
Celiac disease Proton pump inhibitors
Bacterial overgrowth H2 receptor antagonists
Blind loop Nitrous oxide (N O) gas, used for
16. CLINICAL PRESENTATION
Macrocytic anemia
Symptoms of anemia-fatigue, irritability, cognitive
decline,chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, light-
headedness
Gastrointestinal symptoms
Glossitis (including pain, swelling, tenderness, and loss of
papillae and/or hyperpigmentation of the tongue)
Neuropsychiatric changes
Symmetric paresthesias or numbness and gait problems
The neuropathy is typically symmetric and affects the legs
more than arms
Subacute combined degeneration of the dorsal (posterior) and
lateral columns (white matter) of the spinal cord due to
demyelination
It is associated with progressive weakness, ataxia, and
paresthesias that may progress to spasticity and paraplegia
17. Subacute combined degeneration
(A) T2W demonstrating hyperintensity
(brightness) in the posterior columns from mid-
C2 level to mid-C6 level (white arrows). (B) T1W
demonstrating iso-intensity of the posterior
columns with the anterior columns (white
arrows)
MRI T2W axial view of the
cervical spinal cord
demonstrating symmetrical
hyperintensities in the
posterior columns (black
arrows)
18. Depression or mood impairment
Irritability, Insomnia
Cognitive slowing
Forgetfulness
Dementia
Psychosis
Visual disturbances, which may be associated with optic atrophy
Peripheral sensory deficits
Weakness, which may progress to paraplegia and incontinence if
severe
Impaired position and vibration sense
Lhermitte sign, a shock-like sensation that radiates to the feet during
neck flexion
Ataxia or positive Romberg test
Abnormal deep tendon reflexes
Extrapyramidal signs (eg, dystonia, dysarthria, rigidity)
Restless legs syndrome
Nonspecific fatigue
19. Infants and maternal vitamin B12 deficiency
Present with pancytopenia and/or macrocytosis; there
may be associated developmental delay or regression,
feeding difficulties, hypotonia, irritability, tremors, or
convulsions
Skin
Skin hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation can
occur
Hyperpigmentation on the hands and feet
Cancer
Increased risk of gastric cancer in individuals with
pernicious anemia
21. Findings supporting the diagnosis of vitamin B12
deficiency are
(1) Low serum vitamin B12 levels
(2) Normal or elevated serum folate levels
(3) Moderate to severe macrocytic anemia
(4) Leukopenia with hypersegmented granulocytes
(5) A dramatic reticulocytic response (within 2 to 3 days) to
parenteral administration of vitaminB12
22. LABORATORY FINDINGS
CBC and blood smear
Anemia
Macrocytic red blood cells (MCV >100 fL) or macro-
ovalocytosis
An MCV >115 fL is more specific to vitamin B12 or folate
deficiency
Mild leukopenia and/or thrombocytopenia
Low reticulocyte count
Hypersegmented neutrophils on the peripheral blood
smear (ie, >5% of neutrophils with 5 lobes or 1 % of
neutrophils with 6 lobes)
Increased lactate dehydrogenase,Increased bilirubin
23. PERIPHERAL SMEAR
Peripheral smear shows marked
macro-ovalocytosis in a patient with
vitamin B12 deficiency. In this case,
teardrop cells are an advanced form of
macro-ovalocytes.
Peripheral blood smear showing a
hypersegmented neutrophil (seven
lobes) and macroovalocytes, a pattern
that can be seen with vitamin B12
(cobalamin) or folate deficiency.
24. Serum vitamin B12
Above 300 pg/mL (above 221 pmol/L) Normal; deficiency unlikely
200 to 300 pg/mL (148 to 221 pmol/L) Borderline; deficiency is
possible and additional testing is useful.
Below 200 pg/mL (below 148 pmol/L) Low; consistent with
deficiency
Levels of cobalamins fall in normal pregnancy
Reference ranges vary between laboratories, but levels below 150
ng/L are common and, in the last trimester, 5%10% of women have
levels below 100 ng/L
Spuriously low B12 values occur in women using the oral
contraceptive pill and in patients with myeloma, in whom
paraproteins can interfere with vitamin B12 assays
High serum B12levels are usually due to raised serum TC I levels
and can be due to the presence of liver, renal, or myeloproliferative
diseases or to cancer of the breast, colon, or liver
25. MMA and homocysteine
Normal No deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate.
MMA and homocysteine elevated
Deficiency of vitamin B12 (does not eliminate the
possibility of folate deficiency).
MMA normal, homocysteine elevated
No deficiency of vitamin B12.
Consistent with deficiency of folate.
But may be raised in other conditions, for example,
chronic renal disease, alcoholism, smoking, pyridoxine
deficiency, hypothyroidism, and therapy with steroids,
cyclosporine, and other drugs
26. Autoantibodies to intrinsic factor
Antiparietal cell antibodies,autoantibodies to IF-Pernicious
anemia
Two types of IF immunoglobulin G antibody may be found in the
sera of patients with PA
The blocking, or type I, antibody prevents the combination of
IF and cobalamin, whereas the binding, or type II, antibody
prevents attachment of IF to ileal mucosa
serum gastrin raised in pernicious anemia
serum pepsinogen I low in pernicious anemia
27. Gastric Biopsy
A single endoscopic examination is recommended if
PA is diagnosed
Gastric biopsy usually shows atrophy of all layers of
the body and fundus, with loss of glandular
elements, an absence of parietal and chief cells and
replacement by mucous cells, a mixed inflammatory
cell infiltrate, and perhaps intestinal metaplasia
28. Bone marrow in severe megaloblastic anemia
Marrow is hypercellular. The cells are larger than normoblasts, and an
increased number of cells with eccentric lobulated nuclei or nuclear
fragments may be present .Giant and abnormally shaped metamyelocytes
and enlarged hyperpolyploid megakaryocytes are characteristic
29. TREATMENT
Vitamin B12 is not given intravenously
Intravenous use will result in urinary excretion of most of the vitamin B12.
Dosage:
Intramuscular First week-1000 mcg IM daily
F/B 1000mcg once per week for 4 weeks
F/B 1000mcg once every 1-3 months
Oral In patients with normal absorption 1000 mcg once per day
In patients with impaired absorption vitamin B12 2000 mcg daily
It is wise to add 15 mg of oral folic acid and an iron preparation, because
reinstitution of brisk haemopoiesis may unmask deficiency of these factors
Preparations
Cyanocobalamin
Hydroxocobalamin
Methylcobalamin
Because of higher protein binding and better retention in blood,
hydroxocobalamin is preferred for parenteral administration to treat vit B12
deficiency
30. Adverse effects
Allergic reactions have occurred on injection, probably due to contaminants.
Anaphylactoid reactions (probably to sulfite contained in the formulation) have
occurred on i.v. injection
Duration of therapy
Lifelong replacement is necessary for individuals with a condition
that is not reversed (eg, gastric bypass surgery, autoantibodies to
intrinsic factor [pernicious anemia])
If the cause of the deficiency can be treated or eliminated (eg,
excessively restrictive diet, drug-induced deficiency, reversible
cause of malabsorption), supplementation can be discontinued
after the deficiency is corrected
Annual monitoring for vitamin B12 deficiency is recommended for
patients receiving Metformin
Prevention
Individuals at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency (eg, vegan or strict
vegetarian diet, gastric or bariatric surgery) should receive oral
vitamin B12 supplements