Vitamin B12 or Folate Deficiency Anaemia

Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia is a type of anaemia that occurs when the body does not have enough vitamin B12 or folate to produce healthy red blood cells.

Causes

• Poor diet: A lack of vitamin B12 or folate in the diet can lead to deficiency.
• Pernicious anaemia: An autoimmune disorder that causes the body to attack the cells in the stomach that produce intrinsic factor, a protein needed to absorb vitamin B12.
• Gastrointestinal disorders: Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis can affect the absorption of vitamin B12 and folate.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors and histamine-2 (H2) blockers, can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12.
• Aging: The ability to absorb vitamin B12 decreases with age.

Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Pale skin
• Headaches
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including:

• Full blood count (FBC): To check for low red blood cell count and other abnormalities.
• Vitamin B12 and folate levels: To check for deficiency.
• Reticulocyte count: To check for the production of new red blood cells.
• Peripheral smear: To examine the shape and size of red blood cells.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the deficiency, but may include:

• Vitamin B12 injections or supplements: To replace deficient vitamin B12.
• Folate supplements: To replace deficient folate.
• Dietary changes: To increase intake of foods rich in vitamin B12 and folate, such as meat, fish, poultry, and fortified cereals.
• Treatment of underlying conditions: Such as pernicious anaemia or gastrointestinal disorders.

Complications

If left untreated, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia can lead to:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness
• Nerve damage: Causing numbness, tingling, and difficulty walking.
• Cognitive impairment: Affecting memory, concentration, and mood.
• Pregnancy complications: Such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects.

Prevention

To prevent vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia:

• Eat a balanced diet that includes foods rich in vitamin B12 and folate.
• Consider supplements if you are at risk of deficiency, such as vegetarians or vegans.
• Get regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your vitamin B12 and folate levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia?
A condition where the body has low levels of vitamin B12 or folate, affecting red blood cell production.

What are the main symptoms?
Fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.

What causes Vitamin B12 deficiency?
Poor diet, pernicious anaemia, stomach or intestinal problems, or certain medications.

What causes folate deficiency?
Poor diet, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or certain medical conditions.

How is the condition diagnosed?
Blood tests to measure vitamin B12 and folate levels.

Can it be treated?
Yes, with supplements, dietary changes, or injections of vitamin B12.

What are the risks if left untreated?
Nerve damage, increased risk of heart problems, and pregnancy complications.

Can diet alone treat the condition?
Sometimes, but often supplements are needed to correct the deficiency.

Are some people more at risk?
Yes, including vegetarians, vegans, pregnant women, and older adults.

Can the condition be prevented?
Yes, with a balanced diet and regular health check-ups.