Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 8, 2026
Three-dimensional Imaging and Analysis of Mitochondria within Human Intraepidermal Nerve Fibers
Published on: September 29, 2017
Vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy; a rare diagnosis in young adults: a case report
Cyril Jabea Ekabe1,2, Jules Kehbila1,3,2, Martin Hongieh Abanda1,4
1Grace Community Health and Development Association, P. O. Box 15, Kumba, Southwest Region, Cameroon.
Background:
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a metabolic disorder with many causes. It often presents with megaloblastic anaemia and neurological disorders which entail prompt treatment. The diagnosis of Vitamin B12 deficiency is challenging in resource limited-settings due to limited access to diagnostic tools and unfamiliarity with the disease, owing to its rarity especially in young people.
Case Presentation:
A 28 year old female Cameroonian presented with progressive burning painful sensations on the upper trunk, paraesthesia and numbness of the upper and lower limbs for a period of 5 years. Before presenting to us, she had consulted in numerous health institutions for which she had been treated for diverse pathologies with no relieve of symptoms. After clinical and laboratory evaluation, a diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency-associated neuropathy was made. She was placed on oral vitamin B12 supplements at 2 mg daily for 3 months. Follow up was marked by good clinical recovery after 1 month of therapy.
Conclusion:
Vitamin B12 deficiency neuropathy is a rare debilitating disease that affects mostly the elderly. However; young adults with neuropathic symptoms warrant a high index of suspicion. Peripheral blood smears and complete blood counts are sufficiently diagnostic in resource-limited settings.
