Osmosis video - Vitamin B12 deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a clinical condition caused by insufficient levels of Vitamin B12 in the body, which hinders cell division and causes an excess of homocysteine and methylmalonic acid. This can result in macrocytic megaloblastic anemia, characterized by pallor, dyspnea, and fatigue; glossitis or inflammation of the tongue, resulting in swelling and tenderness, dysphonia, and dysphagia; and myelin damage, which may lead to changes in reflexes, decreased muscle function, memory impairment, and, in rare cases, psychosis. Diagnosis of B12 deficiency can be confirmed by conducting a peripheral blood smear, measuring serum levels of vitamin B12, as well as serum homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels. B12 deficiency is effectively treated with oral supplements or intramuscular injections of vitamin B12.