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Pernicious anemia seen initially as orthostatic hypotension
Archives of Internal Medicine
|October 1, 1981
Summary
Pernicious anemia can initially present as neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. Vitamin B12 replacement with cyanocobalamin effectively treated the condition, normalizing blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Hematology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Autonomic neuropathy can manifest with orthostatic hypotension, a condition characterized by a drop in blood pressure upon standing.
- Pernicious anemia, a common cause of vitamin B12 deficiency, can lead to neurological complications.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old male presented with syncope attributed to orthostatic hypotension.
- Diagnostic workup revealed pernicious anemia as the underlying cause of autonomic neuropathy.
Findings:
- Vitamin B12 deficiency was identified as the cause of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension.
- Treatment with cyanocobalamin (vitamin B12) led to the resolution of orthostatic hypotension and normalization of blood pressure.
Implications:
- This case highlights neurogenic orthostatic hypotension as a potential initial presentation of vitamin B12 deficiency.
- Early diagnosis and B12 supplementation are crucial for managing neurological complications of pernicious anemia.