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Long-term neurologic consequences of nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency in infants
S M Graham1, O M Arvela, G A Wise
1Prince of Wales Children's Hospital, Randwick, Australia.
Insights
Nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency in infants causes developmental regression and poor brain growth. Early recognition and prevention are crucial, as long-term intellectual outcomes can be poor despite initial treatment response.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency is a preventable condition that can affect infants.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are critical for optimal outcomes.
Observation:
- Six infants with nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency were reviewed.
- Consistent clinical features included irritability, anorexia, failure to thrive, developmental regression, and poor brain growth.
Findings:
- Two of four infants with long-term follow-up had poor intellectual outcomes.
- While initial treatment response was positive, long-term neurological consequences were observed.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for early detection and prevention strategies for infant vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Underscores the potential for lasting neurological impairment if not addressed promptly.
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.