Long-term neurologic consequences of nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency in infants

J Pediatr. 1992 Nov;121(5 Pt 1):710-4. doi: 10.1016/s0022-3476(05)81897-9.

Abstract

A review of the clinical findings in six infants with nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency seen during the last 10 years was undertaken and an attempt made to obtain long-term neurologic follow-up. There was a consistent clinical pattern in vitamin B12-deficient infants; irritability, anorexia, and failure to thrive were associated with marked developmental regression and poor brain growth. Two of the four patients who qualified for long-term review had a poor intellectual outcome. Although early response to treatment is satisfying, the long-term consequences of nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency in infants emphasize the need for prevention or early recognition of this syndrome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Pernicious / complications
  • Breast Feeding
  • Child Development
  • Child, Preschool
  • Diet, Vegetarian
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Nervous System Diseases / etiology*
  • Vitamin B 12 / therapeutic use
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / complications*
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / therapy

Substances

  • Vitamin B 12