Oral vitamin B12 treatment is effective for children with nutritional vitamin B12 deficiency

Micronutrient status in children aged 6-59 months with severe wasting and/or nutritional edema: implications for nutritional rehabilitation formulations

Undernutrition remains a global struggle and is associated with almost 45% of deaths in children younger than 5 years. Despite advances in management of severe wasting (though less so for nutritional edema), full and sustained recovery remains elusive. Children with severe wasting and/or nutritional edema (also commonly referred to as severe acute malnutrition and part of the umbrella term "severe malnutrition") continue to have a high mortality rate. This suggests a likely multifactorial etiology that may include micronutrient deficiency. Micronutrients are currently provided in therapeutic foods at levels based on expert opinion, with few supportive studies of high quality having been conducted. This narrative review looks at the knowledge base on micronutrient deficiencies in children aged 6-59 months who have severe wasting and/or nutritional edema, in addition to highlighting areas where further research is warranted (See "Future Directions" section).

Vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy for maternal and child health outcomes

BACKGROUND

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a major public health problem worldwide, with the highest burden in elderly people, pregnant women, and young children. Due to its role in DNA synthesis and methylation, folate metabolism, and erythropoiesis, vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy may confer longer-term benefits to maternal and child health outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of oral vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy on maternal and child health outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) on 2 June 2023, and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTs, or cluster-RCTs evaluating the effects of oral vitamin B12 supplementation compared to placebo or no vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Four review authors independently assessed trial eligibility. Two review authors independently extracted data from included studies and conducted checks for accuracy. Three review authors independently assessed the risk of bias of the included studies using the Cochrane RoB 1 tool. We used GRADE to evaluate the certainty of evidence for primary outcomes.

MAIN RESULTS

The review included five trials with 984 pregnant women. All trials were conducted in low- and middle-income countries, including India, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Croatia. At enrolment, 26% to 51% of pregnant women had vitamin B12 deficiency (less than 150 pmol/L), and the prevalence of anaemia (haemoglobin less than 11.0 g/dL) ranged from 30% to 46%. The dosage of vitamin B12 supplementation varied from 5 μg/day to 250 μg/day, with administration beginning at 8 to 28 weeks' gestation through to delivery or three months' postpartum, and the duration of supplementation ranged from 8 to 16 weeks to 32 to 38 weeks. Three trials, involving 609 pregnant women, contributed data for meta-analyses of the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation compared to placebo or no vitamin B12 supplementation. Maternal anaemia: there may be little to no difference for maternal anaemia by intervention group, but the evidence is very uncertain (70.9% versus 65.0%; risk ratio (RR) 1.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93 to 1.26; 2 trials, 284 women; very low-certainty evidence). Maternal vitamin B12 status: vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of maternal vitamin B12 deficiency compared to placebo or no vitamin B12 supplementation, but the evidence is very uncertain (25.9% versus 67.9%; RR 0.38, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.51; 2 trials, 272 women; very low-certainty evidence). Women who received vitamin B12 supplements during pregnancy may have higher total vitamin B12 concentrations compared to placebo or no vitamin B12 supplementation (mean difference (MD) 60.89 pmol/L, 95% CI 40.86 to 80.92; 3 trials, 412 women). However, there was substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 85%). Adverse pregnancy outcomes: the evidence is uncertain about the effect on adverse pregnancy outcomes, including preterm birth (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.74; 2 trials, 340 women; low-certainty evidence), and low birthweight (RR 1.50, 95% CI 0.93 to 2.43; 2 trials, 344 women; low-certainty evidence). Two trials reported data on spontaneous abortion (or miscarriage); however, the trials did not report quantitative data for meta-analysis and there was no clear definition of spontaneous abortion in the study reports. No trials evaluated the effects of vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy on neural tube defects. Infant vitamin B12 status: children born to women who received vitamin B12 supplementation had higher total vitamin B12 concentrations compared to placebo or no vitamin B12 supplementation (MD 71.89 pmol/L, 95% CI 20.23 to 123.54; 2 trials, 144 children). Child cognitive outcomes: three ancillary analyses of one trial reported child cognitive outcomes; however, data were not reported in a format that could be included in quantitative meta-analyses. In one study, maternal vitamin B12 supplementation did not improve neurodevelopment status (e.g. cognitive, language (receptive and expressive), motor (fine and gross), social-emotional, or adaptive (conceptual, social, practical) domains) in children compared to placebo (9 months, Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development Third Edition (BSID-III); 1 trial; low-certainty evidence) or neurophysiological outcomes (72 months, event-related potential measures; 1 trial; low-certainty evidence), though children born to women who received vitamin B12 supplementation had improved expressive language domain compared to placebo (30 months, BSID-III; 1 trial; low-certainty evidence).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Oral vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of maternal vitamin B12 deficiency and may improve maternal vitamin B12 concentrations during pregnancy or postpartum compared to placebo or no vitamin B12 supplementation, but the evidence is very uncertain. The effects of vitamin B12 supplementation on other primary outcomes assessed in this review were not reported, or were not reported in a format for inclusion in quantitative analyses. Vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy may improve maternal and infant vitamin B12 status, but the potential impact on longer-term clinical and functional maternal and child health outcomes has not yet been established.

The Epidemiology of Deficiency of Vitamin B12 in Preschool Children in Turkey

Background: Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin with important cellular functions; it is an essential vitamin. The aim of this study is to determine the B12 levels of children in the period from the 6th month when they start taking additional foods to the age of seven (preschool children) and the risk factors affecting them. Methods: One hundred pediatric patients aged 6-72 months who were diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency and their parents who agreed to attend Istanbul Atlas University, Medical Faculty, "Medicine Hospital" Pediatric Clinic between September 2022 and June 2023 were prospectively included in this study. Results: B12 deficiency was significantly higher in the 6-11 (25%)-month group than in the 12-23 (5.8%)- and 24-47 (2.8%)-month groups. Homocysteine levels were highest in those with insufficient B12 levels compared to the other groups. There was no statistically significant difference in weekly dairy and meat consumption levels between age groups. B12 levels were lower in the 6-11-month group than in the other groups. Homocysteine levels were highest in those with insufficient B12 levels (<200 pg/mL (148 pmol/L)). Folic acid levels were lower in the 24-47-month and 48-72-month groups than in the 6-11-month and 12-23-month groups. Conclusions: The results obtained in this study showed that low vitamin B12 and increased homocysteine levels seem to be important risk factors in preschool children, especially from the 6th month when they start consuming additional foods. The diagnosis of B12 deficiency can be confirmed by elevated serum total homocysteine levels, which are evidence of functional cobalamin deficiency.

Recommendations for Nutritional Supplementation in Pediatric Oncology: A Compilation of the Facts

BACKGROUND

As one of the few modifiable risk factors, the importance of dietary patterns for both disease prevention and treatment outcome in pediatric oncology has gained increasing popularity. Malnutrition is associated with lower survival rates, tolerance to treatment, and quality of life. Yet, especially in children with malignancies, nutritional deterioration is common, and pediatric cancer patients often present with inadequate intake of micro- and macronutrients alike. Despite the reported widespread use of dietary supplements, few empirical data provide a basis for clinical recommendations, and evidence for their efficacy is inconsistent. Current literature lacks a systematic approach as to how and which supplements should be recommended for specific patients, types of cancer, or during specific treatments. The aim of this review is to highlight the role of the most frequently used nutrients in pediatric malignant diseases and to give a practical guide based on current scientific evidence.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted on PubMed through April 2023 to select meta-analyses, systematic reviews, observational studies, and individual randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of macro- and micronutrient supplementation in pediatric oncology. The search strategy included the following medical subject headings (MeSH) and keywords: "childhood cancer", "pediatric oncology", "nutritional status", "dietary supplements", "vitamins", "micronutrients", "calcium", "magnesium", "vitamin D", "zinc" "glutamine", "selen", and "omega-3 fatty acids". The reference lists of all relevant articles were screened to include potentially pertinent studies.

RESULTS

The present review provides a comprehensive and updated overview of the latest evidence about the role of nutrition and diet in pediatric oncology, also focusing on different nutritional interventions available for the management of the disease. We summarize evidence about the importance of adequate nutrition in childhood cancer and the role of several micronutrients and critically interpret the findings. Possible effects and benefits of supplementation during chemotherapy are discussed, as are strategies for primary and secondary prevention.

CONCLUSIONS

We here describe the obvious benefits of dietary supplementation for childhood cancer. Further large-scale clinical trials are required to verify the impacts of deficiencies and the possible benefits of supplementation and optimal dosages. (337 words).

High Serum Folate Concentration, Vitamin B12 Deficiency, and Anthropometric Nutritional Status in Brazilian Children Aged 6-59 Months: Data from the Brazilian National Survey of Child Nutrition

BACKGROUND

Vitamin B12 and folate are key nutrients that help children reach their full potential in growth and development; however, little is known about the status of these vitamins in Brazilian children.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the serum concentrations of vitamin B12 and folate, to investigate the association between high folate concentration (HFC) and vitamin B12 deficiency, and to evaluate the association between vitamin B12 and stunting/underweight in Brazilian children aged 6-59 mo.

METHODS

Data from 7417 children aged 6-59 mo collected during the Brazilian National Survey on Child Nutrition were used. Serum concentrations of vitamin B12 of <150 pmol/L and folate of <10 nmol/L were classified as deficient, and folate concentrations of >45.3 nmol/L were classified as HFC. Children with length/height-for-age z-score of less than -2 were considered stunted, and those with weight-for-age z-score of less than -2 were underweight. Logistic regression models were performed.

RESULTS

In Brazil, 14.2% (95% CI: 12.2, 16.1) of children aged 6-59 mo had vitamin B12 deficiency, 1.1% (95% CI: 0.5, 1.6) had folate deficiency, and 36.9% (95% CI: 33.4, 40.3) had HFC. Vitamin B12 deficiency was higher in children from the northern region of Brazil (28.5%), between 6 and 24 mo (25.3%), whose mothers had lower formal education (0-7 y; 18.7%). Children with HFC had 62% lower odds (OR: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.27, 0.54) of vitamin B12 deficiency than those with normal/deficient folate. Children with vitamin B12 deficiency and normal/deficient folate had higher odds of stunting (OR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.02, 2.43) than children without vitamin B12 deficiency and normal/deficient folate.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a public health problem among Brazilian children aged <2 y with vulnerable socioeconomic status. HFC was inversely associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, and lower odds of stunting were observed in children with HFC and vitamin B12 deficiency than in those with vitamin B12 deficiency and normal/deficient folate.

Evaluation of thiol disulfide balance in adolescents with vitamin B12 deficiency

BACKGROUND

Vitamin B12 is an important vitamin for metabolism and affects many mechanisms in the body including neuronal migration, DNA synthesis, neurotransmitter synthesis, brain and cognitive development. Increased oxidative stress in the body leads to the damage of the child development, but also plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of many diseases encountered in the childhood period. Our aim is to investigate whether or not B12 deficiency is associated with dynamic thiol/disulfide homeostasis in adolescent patients.

METHODS

This is a case-controlled observational study consisting of 45 adolescent patients with vitamin b12 deficiency and a control group consisting of 45 healthy adolescent. Patients between 11 and 18 ages who applied to the outpatient clinic for the first time with one of the complaints of headache were selected due to their decreased school performance, dizziness, and fatigue. Hemogram, vitamin B12, homocysteine levels and oxidative stress parameters such as native and total thiol disulfide levels and ratios of disulfide/native thiol, disulfide/total thiol, and native thiol/total thiol were measured from the patients.

RESULTS

Vitamin B12 level was found to be significantly lower in vitamin B12 deficiency group (p < 0.001). The serum disulfide level was found to be 27.5 ± 8.38 in the case group and 20.5 ± 8.36 in the control group (p < 0.001). In the multiple linear regression analysis, it was determined that the independent variables of native thiol, homocysteine and disulfide levels effected of vitamin B12 levels (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.005 respectively; R² = 0.62).

CONCLUSION

The results obtained in terms of the effect of vitamin B12 deficiency on oxidative stress in adolescents are remarkable. The increase in oxidative stress parameters in the patient group may also suggest that oxidative stress plays a vital role in vitamin B12 deficiency in adolescence.

Acquired Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Newborns: Positive Impact on Newborn Health through Early Detection

The early diagnosis of and intervention in vitamin B12 deficiency in exclusively breastfed infants by mothers with low vitamin B12 is crucial in preventing possible irreversible neurologic damage, megaloblastic anemia, and failure to thrive. We assess the usefulness of the early detection of asymptomatic B12 deficiency related to acquired conditions and highlight the importance of monitoring serum vitamin B12 levels during pregnancy. We describe demographic, clinical, dietary, and biochemical data, including the evolution of a vitamin B12 deficiency’s functional biomarkers. We enrolled 12 newborns (5 males) with an age range of 1–2 months old that were exclusively breastfed and asymptomatic. These cases were referred to our metabolic unit due to alterations in expanded newborn screening: high levels of methylmalonic acid and/or total homocysteine (tHcy). All mothers were under a vegetarian diet except three who had abnormal B12 absorption, and all presented low or borderline serum B12 level and high plasma levels of tHcy. Supplementation with oral vitB12 re-established the metabolic homeostasis of the mothers. In infants, therapy with an intramuscular injection of 1.0 mg hydroxocobalamin led to the rapid normalization of the metabolic pattern, and a healthy outcome was observed. Acquired B12 deficiency should be ruled out before proceeding in a differential diagnosis of cobalamin metabolism deficits, methylmalonic acidemia, and homocystinuria.

Maternal Vitamin B12 Deficiency Detected by Newborn Screening-Evaluation of Causes and Characteristics

Vitamin B12 deficiency, mostly of maternal origin in newborns, is a well-treatable condition but can cause severe neurologic sequelae in infants. Early detection of vitamin B12 deficiency allows the pre-symptomatic treatment of affected children. This evaluation assesses the characteristics of maternal vitamin B12 deficiency detected by newborn screening. In a prospective single-center study, a systematic screening strategy for vitamin B12 deficiency using a combination of two second-tier strategies was applied. In addition to confirmatory diagnostics in children, the systematic work-up of vitamin B12 status was also performed for their mothers. Maternal characteristics were assessed including ethnic origin, diet, and vitamin supplementation during pregnancy. For affected mothers, a work-up by internal medicine was recommended. In total, 121 mother-infant couples were analyzed. 66% of mothers adhered to a balanced diet including meat. The cause of maternal vitamin B12 deficiency was unknown in 56% of cases, followed by dietary causes in 32%, and organic causes in 8%. All mothers following a vegan diet and most mothers with a vegetarian diet took vitamin preparations during pregnancy, whereas only 55.8% of mothers with a balanced diet took folic acid or other vitamins. Maternal vitamin B12, folic acid, and homocysteine levels were significantly correlated with the child's folic acid levels, and with homocysteine, methylmalonic, and methylcitric acid levels in first and second NBS dried blood spots. Most children had normal blood counts and showed normocytosis. Although 36.7% of mothers showed anemia, only one presented with macrocytosis. Adherence to vitamin supplementation in pregnancy is low despite the recommendation for supplementation of folic acid. Ideally, the evaluation of mothers for vitamin B12 levels and appropriate therapy should be initiated in early pregnancy. In infants detected through newborn screening, the multidisciplinary assessment and therapy of both children and mothers should be performed.

Beneficial effects of vitamin B12 treatment in pediatric patients diagnosed with vitamin B12 deficiency regarding total-native thiol, oxidative stress, and mononuclear leukocyte DNA damage

Vitamin B₁₂ is involved in biochemical metabolic pathways. B₁₂ deficiency is common in childhood when the need for the vitamin increases and growth and development occur. Various hematological, neurological, psychiatric, and gastrointestinal disorders are observed in its deficiency. In addition, B₁₂ deficiency is associated with oxidative stress and DNA damage. Therefore, the aim of our study is to evaluate oxidative stress, thiol/disulfide homeostasis, and DNA damage pre and post-treatment in children diagnosed with B₁₂ deficiency. A total of 40 children with B₁₂ deficiency were included in the study after the consent form was approved. Blood was drawn from children pre and posttreatment. Hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), and red blood cells (RBC) were measured by autoanalyzer; total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), total thiol (TT), and native thiol (NT) were measured by the photometric method, and DNA damage was analyzed by the comet assay method. Oxidative stress index (OSI) and disulfide (DIS) values were calculated. As a result of the experiments, HGB, HCT, and RBC increased with treatment. While TAS, TT, and NT as antioxidant parameters increased; TOS, OSI, and DIS decreased with treatment compared to pretreatment. DNA damage was also found to decrease with treatment. Additionally, these data were statistically significant (p < 0.001). It was found that oxidative stress and DNA damage decreased with oral B₁₂ treatment in children with B₁₂ deficiency, and clinical parameters were also improved.

Vegan nutrition: a preliminary guide for health professionals

Since the beginning of the 21st century, interest in vegan diets has been rapidly increasing in most countries. Misconceptions about vegan diets are widespread among the general population and health professionals. Vegan diets can be health-promoting and may offer certain important advantages compared to typical Western (and other mainstream) eating patterns. However, adequate dietary sources/supplements of nutrients of focus specific to vegan diets should be identified and communicated. Without supplements/fortified foods, severe vitamin B12 deficiency may occur. Other potential nutrients of focus are calcium, vitamin D, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, selenium, vitamin A, and protein. Ensuring adequate nutrient status is particularly important during pregnancy, lactation, infancy, and childhood. Health professionals are often expected to be able to provide advice on the topic of vegan nutrition, but a precise and practical vegan nutrition guide for health professionals is lacking. Consequently, it is important and urgent to provide such a set of dietary recommendations. It is the aim of this article to provide vegan nutrition guidelines, based on current evidence, which can easily be communicated to vegan patients/clients, with the goal of ensuring adequate nutrient status in vegans.

Effects of nutrients on immunomodulation in patients with severe COVID-19: Current knowledge

Recent research has demonstrated that critically ill patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) show significant immune system dysregulation. Due to that, some nutrients that influence immunomodulation have been suggested as a form of treatment against the infection. This review collected the information on the impact of vitamins on the prognosis of COVID-19, with the intention of facilitating treatment and prevention of the disease risk status in patients. The collected information was obtained using the PubMed electronic database by searching for articles that relate COVID-19 and the mechanisms/effects of the nutrients: Proteins, glucose, lipids, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron, copper, zinc, and magnesium, including prospective, retrospective, and support articles. The findings reveal an optimal response related mainly to omega-3, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, calcium, and iron that might represent benefits in the treatment of critically ill patients. However, nutrient supplementation should be done with caution due to the limited availability of randomized controlled studies.

Vomiting as a Presenting Symptom of Infantile Vitamin B12 Deficiency

An 8-month-old, exclusively breastfed girl presented with a five-month history of vomiting with subsequent failure to thrive and lethargy. Family history was notable for the maternal history of gastroschisis. Mother had no dietary restrictions and had successfully breastfed multiple children for >12 months without issue. Initial evaluation was notable for macrocytic anemia. Subsequent serum B₁₂ levels were undetectable. Upon further questioning, the mother had significant bowel resection as an infant due to complications of gastroschisis. Maternal serum B₁₂ levels were also undetectable. The infant’s symptoms resolved with supplementation.

Sublingual methylcobalamin treatment is as effective as intramuscular and peroral cyanocobalamin in children age 0-3 years

PURPOSE

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a cause of preventable growth and developmental retardation in children. In this respect, alternative methods such as oral and sublingual treatments are being tried. We aimed to compare the efficacy of oral, sublingual, and intramuscular vitamin B12 treatments in children aged 0-3 years.

METHODS

The study included 158 patients with serum vitamin B12 deficiency (serum vitamin B12 level <300 ng/L) aged 0-3 years retrospectively. According to the vitamin B12 treatment modalities, the patients were divided into three groups as oral cyanocobalamin (group 1), sublingual methylcobalamin (group 2), and intramuscular cyanocobalamin (group 3).

RESULTS

The mean values of vitamin B12 levels increased to above 300 ng/L in all three groups. This increase was statistically significant for Group 1,2 and 3 (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Sublingual methylcobalamin was determined as effective as oral and intramuscular cyanocobalamin improving vitamin B12 levels aged 0-3 years.

What's already known about this topic?It is already known that intramuscular and oral cyanocobalamin treatments are effective in vitamin B12 deficiency of children.What does this article add?Sublingual methylcobalamin treatment, which is a new treatment method, was found to be as effective as oral and intramuscular cyanocobalamin treatments. To our knowledge, there is no study about sublingual treatment in children and comparing oral cyanocobalamin, intramuscular cyanocobalamin, sublingual methylcobalamin.

Efficiency of the sublingual route in treating B12 deficiency in infants

Objective: To evaluate the efficiency of the sublingual route for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency in infants. Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in children. In breastfed infants, the main reason is maternal B12 deficiency. Parenteral administration is commonly prescribed. However, patient compliance is not satisfactory due to repeated painful parenteral applications. It is also known that the oral route is efficient in high doses. In recent years, the sublingual route has been tried. This route stands out due to its easy applicability and low cost. However, there are few efficacy studies in infants for the sublingual route. Materials and methods: The study included 49 infants aged 6-12 months. All infants with marginal or deficient B12 levels (<300 pg/mL) were incidentally detected and treated with sublingual methylcobalamin. Each dose was 1000 μg and administered once a day in the first week, every other day in the second week, twice a week in the third week, and once a week in the last week. Serum vitamin B12 levels were measured before and after the treatment. Paired Sample T-Test was used to compare variables. Results: All infants had normal physical development and had no hematological or neurological issues. It was learned from the parents that the infants tolerated treatment well, and no side effects related to the treatment, such as vomiting or rash, were observed. Before and after the treatment, the mean vitamin B12 levels were 199±57 pg/mL and 684±336 pg/ml, respectively. The difference between the means was statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion: According to the study, it seems possible to treat vitamin B12 deficiency via a sublingual route in infants. In addition, methylcobalamin can be an alternative to the commonly used cyanocobalamin.

Low vitamin B12 level in relation to trace element, total sialic acid and antioxidant enzymes in children with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia

In this study, children with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency anemia (V-B₁₂DA) and control subjects were evaluated for erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase enzyme activities, glutathione, malondialdehyde, serum total sialic acid, total antioxidant status, cobalt, chromium, copper, selenium, vanadium, zinc, iron, lead, magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, phosphorus levels, and the associations of these variables were assessed. The study included 50 children with V-B₁₂DA and 50 control subjects. It was found that the V-B₁₂DA group was significantly lower than the control group, with regard to the mean±the standard error of the mean levels of cobalt (0.089±0.009; 0.058±0.0063 μmol/L, p<0.01), selenium (2.19±0.087; 1.88±0.057 μmol/L, p<0.01), vanadium (1.31±0.053; 1.18±0.035 μmol/L, p<0.05), magnesium (3.02±0.15; 2.73±0.068 μmol/L, p<0.05), zinc (50.76±1.96; 42.23± 1.53 μmol/L, p<0.001), and vitamin B₁₂ (427.20±21.45; 157.08±3.96 pg/mL, p<0.001). Moreover, a significant elevation in total sialic acid (1.44±0.050; 1.61±0.043 mmol/L, p<0.01), and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) (75.37±0.95; 79.91±1.14 fL, p<0.01). It was observed that in the V-B₁₂DA, significantly linear correlations were observed between cobalt - vitamin B₁₂ (r=0.334; p=0.025), vanadium - MCV (r=0.315; p=0.017), vitamin B₁₂ - MCV (r=-0.297; p=0.026). The findings of the study indicated that the levels of cobalt, vanadium significantly associated with traditional vitamin B_12-deficiency parameters. Vitamin B₁₂ and MCV should be measured together with cobalt, vanadium for monitoring the vitamin B₁₂ deficiency anemia.

Recreational Nitrous Oxide Abuse: Prevalence, Neurotoxicity, and Treatment

Nitrous oxide (N₂O), also known as "laughing gas," is a colorless, nonirritating gas. Clinically, it is widely used as an inhaled anesthetic, analgesic, and anxiolytic. In recent years, recreational abuse of N₂O has become increasingly common, especially among young adults and adolescents, but many of them lack awareness of the possible side effects associated with this drug. N₂O abuse can damage multiple systems, especially the nervous system, but the exact mechanism of N₂O toxicity remains controversial. At present, an increasing number of cases of nervous system damage caused by N₂O abuse have been reported both at home and abroad. Discontinuation of N₂O use and timely supplementation with vitamin B12 are essential for a good prognosis. Long-term abuse without timely treatment will eventually lead to irreversible neurological damage. In this article, we discuss the epidemiology of N₂O abuse, neurotoxicity mechanisms, clinical manifestations, relevant auxiliary examinations, treatments, and prognosis to improve social awareness of N₂O exposure risk, especially among users and clinicians.

Is There a Carcinogenic Risk Attached to Vitamin B12 Deficient Diets and What Should We Do About It? Reviewing the Facts

The number of individuals partaking in veganism has increased sharply in the last decade. Therefore, it is critical to look at the implications of vegan diets for public health. Although there are multiple health benefits of a vegan diet, studies have also linked the diet with deficiencies in various micronutrients. This study focuses on vitamin B12, because of its critical role in DNA synthesis and methylation. In light of these connections, a critical review of recent scientific literature is conducted to understand the effects of a B12 deficient diet on the genome and epigenome, and whether it can give rise to cancer. It is observed that a B12 deficiency leads to increased uracil misincorporation, leading to impaired DNA synthesis and genomic instability. The deficiency also leads to global hypomethylation of DNA, a hallmark of early carcinogenesis. The findings of this study highlight the need for increased awareness among vegans to ensure adequate B12 intake through supplementation or consumption of fortified products as a preventative measure. Additionally, the biofortification of staple crops and an improved version of fermented products with increased B12 content can be developed when inadequate intake seems otherwise inevitable.

Vitamine B12 deficiency in children: a diagnostic challenge

Cobalamin or vitamin B12 (vitB12) is involved in DNA synthesis, haematopoiesis and myelinisation. Consequently, vitB12 deficiency causes various symptoms, such as megaloblastic anaemia, neurologic signs or pancytopenia. Despite possible severe symptoms, vitB12 deficiency can present asymptomatically. We report six paediatric patients with different aetiologies of vitB12 deficiency ranging from a subtle to a more overt presentation. VitB12 deficiency is a diagnostic challenge due to the lack of consensus on normal values of vitB12 and its co-markers (folate, holotranscobalamin, methylmalonic acid, homocysteine) and the lack in specificity and sensitivity of the serum vitB12 analysis. All cases were treated with parenteral vitB12. Last decades, evidence supporting high dose oral treatment being as effective as the intramuscular (IM) therapy, also in children, is growing.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Newborns and their Mothers-Novel Approaches to Early Detection, Treatment and Prevention of a Global Health Issue

Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, mostly of maternal origin in newborns, is a well treatable condition but can cause severe neurologic sequelae. In women of childbearing age and pregnant women worldwide vitamin B₁₂ deficiency has been reported with frequencies of 10%-50%. Children with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are asymptomatic at birth but may develop severe multisystemic symptoms, including irreversible developmental impairment in the second half-year of life. Early detection of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency allows for presymptomatic treatment. This article provides an overview over the function of vitamin B₁₂ and discusses causes and frequency of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in newborns, infants, and women of childbearing age. It describes novel successful approaches to newborn screening (NBS) for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency and results of a pilot study which performed systematic NBS for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency using so-called second-tier strategies by measuring homocysteine and methylmalonic acid in dried blood spots. Recommendations for diagnostics in mothers of children with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are described as well as results of systematic work-up in mothers and treatment and follow-up of children with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency detected by NBS. Treatment options of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are presented including a newly developed standardized supplementation scheme with exclusively oral vitamin B₁₂ supplementation. Recommendations for preventive approaches to vitamin B₁₂ deficiency for children and mothers are stated. Many children worldwide could benefit from systematic inclusion of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency into NBS panels. In addition, preventive approaches to maternal vitamin B₁₂ deficiency should be implemented systematically during maternal care.

Vitamin-B12-Mangel im Neugeborenen- und Säuglingsalter – Ursachen, Früherkennung, Diagnostik und Vorstellung eines primär oralen Behandlungsschemas

Hintergrund

Ein Vitamin‑B12-Mangel ist bei Neugeborenen meist bedingt durch einen mütterlichen Vitamin‑B12-Mangel. Beim Kind führt ein schwerer, unerkannter Vitamin‑B12-Mangel zu irreversiblen neurologischen Schädigungen und einer dauerhaften Entwicklungsstörung, die meist erst im zweiten Lebenshalbjahr klinisch erkannt wird. Eine Früherkennung durch das Neugeborenenscreening wird derzeit in Pilotprojekten evaluiert.

Fragestellung

Der vorliegende Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über mögliche Ursachen eines Vitamin‑B12-Mangels und präsentiert erfolgreiche Ansätze zur Früherkennung durch das Neugeborenenscreening sowie Empfehlungen zur Diagnostik bei Mutter und Kind. Für die Behandlung des Vitamin‑B12-Mangels im Neugeborenen- und Säuglingsalter wird bislang häufig zunächst eine intramuskuläre Applikation von Vitamin B12 verwendet. Als Alternative wird von den Autoren ein ausschließlich orales Supplementationsschema mit Vitamin B12 vorgestellt.

Ergebnisse

Im Rahmen des Pilotprojektes „Neugeborenenscreening 2020“ am Screeningzentrum Heidelberg wurde für die Behandlung von Kindern mit Vitamin‑B12-Mangel nach Detektion über das Neugeborenenscreening ein standardisiertes ausschließlich orales Supplementationsschema mit Vitamin B12 entwickelt und erfolgreich angewendet. Dieses besteht in der Verabreichung von Vitamin B12 0,5 mg/Tag p.o. über 3 Tage in Form eines Flüssigpräparates, gefolgt von 0,1 mg/Tag p.o. Über die erste Woche erfolgt zusätzlich die Gabe von 0,4 mg Folsäure pro Tag p.o. Nach Normalisierung aller Parameter des Vitamin‑B12-Haushaltes (einschließlich der funktionellen Marker Homozystein und Methylmalonsäure) erfolgt während der Stillzeit eine Vitamin‑B12-Supplementation in Erhaltungsdosis von 5 µg/Tag p.o. bis zur sicheren Einführung fleischhaltiger Beikost bzw. von Vitamin‑B12-haltiger Nahrung.

Schlussfolgerung

Das hier dargestellte rein orale Behandlungsschema für den Vitamin‑B12-Mangel stellt eine effektive, kostengünstige, schmerzlose und damit besonders kinderfreundliche Behandlung dar.

Newborn Screening for Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Germany-Strategies, Results, and Public Health Implications

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a systematic newborn screening (NBS) strategy for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency.

STUDY DESIGN

In a prospective single-center NBS study, a systematic screening strategy for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency was developed and evaluated. Tandem-mass spectrometry screening was complemented by 2 second-tier strategies, measuring methylmalonic/3-OH-propionic/methylcitric acid, and homocysteine from dried blood spots.

RESULTS

In a cohort of 176 702 children screened over 27 months, 33 children were detected by NBS in whom (maternal) vitamin B₁₂ deficiency was confirmed. Homocysteine was the most sensitive marker for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, but only combination with a second-tier strategy evaluating methylmalonic acid allowed for detection of all 33 children. Mothers were of various ethnic origins, and 89% adhered to a balanced diet. Treatment in children was performed predominantly by oral vitamin B₁₂ supplementation (84%), and all children remained without clinical symptoms at short-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency is a treatable condition but can cause severe neurologic sequelae in infants if untreated. The proposed screening strategy is feasible and effective to identify moderate and severe cases of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency. With an incidence of 1:5355 newborns, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency is more frequent than inborn errors of metabolism included in NBS panels. Treatment of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency is easy, and additional benefits can be achieved for previously undiagnosed affected mothers. This supports inclusion of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency into NBS but also stresses the need for increased awareness of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in caregivers of pregnant women.

The clinical presentation of cobalamin-related disorders: From acquired deficiencies to inborn errors of absorption and intracellular pathways

This review gives an overview of clinical characteristics, treatment and outcome of nutritional and acquired cobalamin (Cbl; synonym: vitamin B12) deficiencies, inborn errors of Cbl absorption and intracellular trafficking, as well as methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (MTHFD1) and methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) deficiencies, which impair Cbl-dependent remethylation. Acquired and inborn Cbl-related disorders and MTHFR deficiency cause multisystem, often severe disease. Failure to thrive, neurocognitive or psychiatric symptoms, eye disease, bone marrow alterations, microangiopathy and thromboembolic events are characteristic. The recently identified MTHFD1 defect additionally presents with severe immune deficiency. Deficient Cbl-dependent enzymes cause reduced methylation capacity and metabolite toxicity. Further net-effects of perturbed Cbl function or reduced Cbl supply causing oxidative stress, altered cytokine regulation or immune functions are discussed.

Oral vitamin B12 versus intramuscular vitamin B12 for vitamin B12 deficiency

BACKGROUND

Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency is common, and the incidence increases with age. Most people with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are treated in primary care with intramuscular (IM) vitamin B₁₂. Doctors may not be prescribing oral vitamin B₁₂ formulations because they may be unaware of this option or have concerns regarding its effectiveness.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of oral vitamin B₁₂ versus intramuscular vitamin B₁₂ for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and LILACS, as well as the WHO ICTRP and ClinicalTrials.gov. The latest search date was 17 July 2017. We applied no language restrictions. We also contacted authors of relevant trials to enquire about other published or unpublished studies and ongoing trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the effect of oral versus IM vitamin B₁₂ for vitamin B₁₂ deficiency.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard methodological procedures expected by Cochrane. Our primary outcomes were serum vitamin B₁₂ levels, clinical signs and symptoms of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, and adverse events. Secondary outcomes were health-related quality of life, acceptability to patients, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular volume, total homocysteine and serum methylmalonic acid levels, and socioeconomic effects. We used GRADE to assess the quality of the evidence for important outcomes. We did not perform meta-analyses due to the small number of included trials and substantial clinical heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

Three RCTs met our inclusion criteria. The trials randomised 153 participants (74 participants to oral vitamin B₁₂ and 79 participants to IM vitamin B₁₂). Treatment duration and follow-up ranged between three and four months. The mean age of participants ranged from 38.6 to 72 years. The treatment frequency and daily dose of vitamin B₁₂ in the oral and IM groups varied among trials. Only one trial had low or unclear risk of bias across all domains and outcome measures. Two trials reported data for serum vitamin B₁₂ levels. The overall quality of evidence for this outcome was low due to serious imprecision (low number of trials and participants). In two trials employing 1000 μg/day oral vitamin B₁₂, there was no clinically relevant difference in vitamin B₁₂ levels when compared with IM vitamin B₁₂. One trial used 2000 μg/day vitamin B₁₂ and demonstrated a mean difference of 680 pg/mL (95% confidence interval 392.7 to 967.3) in favour of oral vitamin B₁₂. Two trials reported data on adverse events (very low-quality evidence due to risk of performance bias, detection bias, and serious imprecision). One trial stated that no treatment-related adverse events were seen in both the oral and IM vitamin B₁₂ groups. One trial reported that 2 of 30 participants (6.7%) in the oral vitamin B₁₂ group left the trial early due to adverse events. Orally taken vitamin B₁₂ showed lower treatment-associated costs than IM vitamin B₁₂ in one trial (low-quality evidence due to serious imprecision). No trial reported on clinical signs and symptoms of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, health-related quality of life, or acceptability of the treatment scheme.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Low quality evidence shows oral and IM vitamin B₁₂ having similar effects in terms of normalising serum vitamin B₁₂ levels, but oral treatment costs less. We found very low-quality evidence that oral vitamin B₁₂ appears as safe as IM vitamin B₁₂. Further trials should conduct better randomisation and blinding procedures, recruit more participants, and provide adequate reporting. Future trials should also measure important outcomes such as the clinical signs and symptoms of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, health related-quality of life, socioeconomic effects, and report adverse events adequately, preferably in a primary care setting.

The Efficacy of Oral Vitamin B12 Replacement for Nutritional Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Standard treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency has not been well established in childhood, the ideal amount of supplemental vitamin B12 is not clear. Vitamin B12 deficiency is classically treated with intramuscular injections. In this study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of oral therapy in children with vitamin B12 deficiency. Patients with serum cobalamin concentrations <300 pg/mL aged between 6 months to 18 years were included in this prospective study. Children were treated orally either with a combination of multivitamin tablet daily or vitamin B12 ampules. Serum specimens were obtained at the end of first and third months of treatment for vitamin B12 levels. A total of 79 patients were included in the study. The mean pretreatment vitamin B12 level increased from 182±47.6 pg/mL to 482±318 pg/mL after 1 month of treatment in the whole cohort. Comparison of the pretreatment vitamin B12 levels with first and third month posttreatment values showed significant difference (P-value, 0.001 and 0.028, respectively). In this study, oral cyanocobalamin was found effective for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency in children.

Effect of two different sublingual dosages of vitamin B12 on cobalamin nutritional status in vegans and vegetarians with a marginal deficiency: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Vegetarians and vegans are more vulnerable to vitamin B₁₂ deficiency with severe risks of megaloblastic anemia, cognitive decline, neuropathy, and depression. An easy and simple method of supplementation consists of taking one weekly dosage of 2000 μg. However, single large oral doses of vitamin B₁₂ are poorly absorbed. The present research evaluates the ability of two different sublingual dosages of vitamin B₁₂ (350 μg/week vs 2000 μg/week) in improving cyanocobalamin (vitamin B₁₂) nutritional status in vegans and vegetarians with a marginal deficiency.

METHODS

A 12-week randomized, double-blind, controlled, parallel intervention trial was performed. Forty subjects with marginal vitamin B₁₂ deficiency were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups: test group Ld (low dose, 350 μg/week) and control group Hd (high dose, 2000 μg/week) vitamin B₁₂ supplementation. Blood samples were collected at baseline and after 15, 30, 60, and 90 days from the intervention for the determination of vitamin B₁₂, related metabolic markers, and blood cell counts.

RESULTS

Two-way analysis of variance showed a significant effect of time (P < 0.0001) and of time × treatment interaction (P = 0.012) on serum concentration of vitamin B₁₂ that increased after 90-day supplementation (Ld and Hd) compared to baseline. Both the supplements increased (P < 0.0001, time effect) the levels of holotranscobalamin, succinic acid, methionine and wellness parameter, while decreased (P < 0.0001, time effect) the levels of methylmalonic acid, homocysteine and folate compared to baseline. No difference was observed between groups (Ld vs Hd). No effect was detected for vitamin B₆ and blood cell count.

CONCLUSIONS

In our experimental conditions, both supplements were able to restore adequate serum concentrations of vitamin B₁₂ and to improve the levels of related metabolic blood markers in subjects with a marginal deficiency. The results support the use of a sublingual dosage of 50 μg/day (350 μg/week) of cobalamin, instead of 2000 μg/week (provided as a single dose), to reach a state of nutritional adequacy of vitamin B₁₂ in this target population. This study was registered at www.isrctn.org as ISRCTN75099618.

Efficacy of oral methylcobalamin in treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia in children

To demonstrate the efficacy of oral methylcobalamin in treating vitamin B12 (vitB12) deficiency anemia, our prospective observational study enrolled 28 children with both macrocytic anemia and low holotranscobalamin (HoloTC) levels. Their hematological and biochemical parameters pre- and posttreatment at 1 month were compared. Hemoglobin showed mean increase of 2.89 g/dl (P < 0.001), rising above 10 g/dl in 24 patients (85.7%). Reticulocytes peaked at 1 week. Mean fall in mean corpuscular volume of 24.83 fl (P < 0.001) and mean improvement in platelets of 122,100/μl (P = 0.001) were noted, and mean rise in HoloTC and vitB12 were 111.36 pmol/l (P < 0.001) and 918.34 pg/ml (P < 0.001), respectively. Thus, initial responses to oral methylcobalamin in children with vitB12 deficiency anemia were adequate.

Hibiscus sabdariffa increases hydroxocobalamin oral bioavailability and clinical efficacy in vitamin B12 deficiency with neurological symptoms

The aim of the study was to evaluate the bioavailability and clinical benefits of oral new formulation (HB₁₂ ) of hydroxocobalamin (Hdrx) with Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS). First, in an observational study, a cohort of 30 vitamin B₁₂ -deficient patients (vit B₁₂ < 200 pg/mL) with neurological symptoms received oral fixed dose of Hdrx containing 15 mg Hdrx daily for 10 days followed by 15 mg monthly. Clinical benefits were evaluated on haematological and biochemical parameters, and neurological improvement at days 10 and 90 compared to day 0. To understand the mechanism, intestinal mucosa from mice were mounted in vitro in Ussing chambers to measure Hdrx Fluxes. In the clinical study, serum vitamin B₁₂ level increased from 55.1 ± 36.9 to 1330 ± 335.5 pg/mL at day 10 and 431.0 ± 24.27 pg/mL at day 90, without overt adverse effects. In mice ileum, (i) intestinal bioavailability of Hdrx increased in dose-dependent manner with HB₁₂ . The apparent permeability of Hdrx was P_app = 34.9 ± 4.6 × 10^-6 cm/s in the presence of 3 mg/mL (HB₁₂ B) compared to the control P_app = 6.2 ± 0.7 × 10^-6 cm/s. (ii) Total transepithelial electrical conductance (G_t ) increased in dose-dependent manner with HB₁₂ , G_t = 161.5 ± 10.8 mS/cm² with HB₁₂ B (Hdrx 1 mg + HS 3 mg) compared to the control Hdrx, G_t = 28.7 ± 4.0 mS/cm². In conclusion, the clinical study suggests that injections are not required when Hdrx is given orally. Intestinal bioavailability of Hdrx increased in vitro when it was used concomitantly with HS.

Vitamin B12 deficiency in patients after enterocystoplasty

INTRODUCTION

Serum B12 deficiency is a known sequlae of enterocystoplasty. The complications of B12 deficiency include megaloblastic anemia, neuropsychiatric disease, and demyelinating diseases such as peripheral neuropathy. Some studies have suggested that underlying disease states may be more important than enteric absorptive capacity in predicting acquired B12 deficiency. A 38% incidence of low or low-normal serum B12 in patients who have undergone enterocystoplasty has previously been reported, and oral B12 supplementation has been demonstrated to be an effective short-term therapy; however, the long-term results remain unclear.

AIMS

This study hypothesized that oral vitamin B12 supplementation in patients with B12 deficiency following enterocystoplasty is an effective long-term treatment. Additionally, it sought to determine if underlying disease state predicts B12 deficiency following enterocystoplasty.

DESIGN

Children who underwent enterocystoplasty at the present institution prior to August 2007 were reviewed. Patients with non-ileal augment, insufficient follow-up or hematologic disorders were excluded. Patients with low or low-normal B12 levels were included. Treatment consisted of daily oral therapy of 250 mcg or monthly parenteral therapy of 1000 mcg IM. Separately, the institutional database of 898 patients who underwent enterocystoplasty was searched and patients with at least one post-operative B12 level were highlighted. The indication for enterocystoplasty was classified as neuropathic or non-neuropathic.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients met inclusion criteria. The mean follow-up was 49 months (range 5-85) following initial abnormal B12 level. On the last follow-up, 4/23 (17%) patients had normal serum B12 levels. No patients reported sequelae of long-term B12 deficiency. In the secondary investigation, 113 patients met inclusion criteria. A total of 101 had neuropathic indications for enterocystoplasty, and 12 had non-neuropathic indications. At any time during follow-up, 48/101 (47.5%) neuropathic patients had low or low-normal B12 levels, and 4/12 (33.3%) non-neuropathic patients had low or low-normal B12 levels during follow-up (P = 0.54) (Figure).

DISCUSSION

The initial success of oral B12 deficiency treatment following enterocystoplasty does not persist over time. This contradicts previous results with short duration follow-up. Underlying disease as the indication for enterocystoplasty did not predict B12 deficiency risk. The study was limited by the small number of patients with B12 deficiency who were started on treatment, as well as by the small number of patients with non-neuropathic indications for enterocystoplasty.

CONCLUSION

The aims of the study were met. Further investigation is required to assess predictors of B12 deficiency following enterocystoplasty.