Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Children

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Hematology
• Neurology

Background:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency presents significant global health challenges.
• It is a leading cause of nutritional anemia in children, alongside iron deficiency.
• Deficiency impacts myelin synthesis, leading to neurological manifestations and potentially affecting somatic growth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence, causes, diagnostic methods, and treatment of Vitamin B12 deficiency.
• To discuss factors contributing to the increasing global incidence and prevalence of this deficiency.
• To highlight the importance of timely intervention for neurological and growth-related complications.

Main Methods:

• This study is a comprehensive literature review.
• It synthesizes current knowledge on Vitamin B12 deficiency from various sources.
• The review covers epidemiological data, clinical presentations, diagnostic algorithms, and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency commonly presents as macrocytic/megaloblastic anemia or pancytopenia.
• Neurological manifestations are a significant consequence, with potential for long-term impairment if treatment is delayed.
• Emerging evidence points to a role of Vitamin B12 in somatic growth.

Conclusions:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency requires a thorough diagnostic approach and timely treatment to mitigate severe hematological and neurological outcomes.
• Addressing the increasing global prevalence necessitates understanding its multifactorial causes.
• Early management is key to preventing irreversible complications and supporting normal development.