Involuntary movements during vitamin B12 treatment

Ozlem Ozdemir1, Birol Baytan, Adalet Meral Gunes

  • 1Department of Pediatric Neurology, Uludag University, Medical Faculty, 16059 Görükle Bursa, Turkey.

Insights

Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause neurological issues. This study reports three infants experiencing movement disorders, including tremor and myoclonus, during vitamin B12 treatment, which were managed with medication.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Pediatrics
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency is a known cause of neurological complications.
  • Involuntary movements can manifest during vitamin B12 deficiency and its treatment.

Observation:

  • Three infants presented with a movement disorder during vitamin B12 administration.
  • The disorder involved tremor and myoclonus affecting the face, tongue, and limbs.

Findings:

  • Symptomatic treatment was required due to symptom severity.
  • Two infants' involuntary movements resolved with clonazepam.
  • One infant's movements were successfully treated with piracetam.

Implications:

  • This highlights a potential adverse effect of vitamin B12 treatment in infants.
  • Early recognition and symptomatic management are crucial for managing these movement disorders.
  • Further research may elucidate the mechanisms behind these treatment-induced movement disorders.

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