Vitamin B12 deficiency in children: a treatable cause of neurodevelopmental delay

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Neurology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency is a rare but serious condition in infants.
• Neurologic manifestations can occur, including developmental delay or regression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe pediatric cases of vitamin B12 deficiency associated with developmental delay.
• To highlight the importance of screening for vitamin B12 deficiency in infants with developmental issues.

Main Methods:

• Case series of 14 infants with vitamin B12 deficiency and developmental delay.
• Analysis of feeding history (breastfeeding) and maternal vitamin B12 levels.
• Assessment of developmental quotient before and after treatment.

Main Results:

• Median age of affected infants was 11 months.
• 8 out of 14 infants (57%) experienced severe to profound developmental delay.
• Maternal vitamin B12 deficiency was common (10/12 mothers).
• Treatment led to a significant mean gain of 38.8 developmental quotient points in 7 follow-ups.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency should be considered in infants presenting with developmental delay or regression, especially in high-prevalence areas.
• Early diagnosis and supplementation can reverse neurologic deficits.
• Maternal vitamin B12 status is a critical factor in exclusively or predominantly breastfed infants.