Vitamin B12 deficiency presenting as an acute confusional state: a case report and review of literature

Afr Health Sci. 2013 Sep;13(3):850-2. doi: 10.4314/ahs.v13i3.47.

Abstract

Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with a wide spectrum of neuro-psychiatric manifestations.

Results: We report a case of a 44 year old female patient referred to the haematology unit with vitamin B12 deficiency presenting as an acute confusional state or delirium. Total resolution of the psychiatric symptoms occurred following parenteral vitamin B12 replacement therapy.

Conclusion: This case report highlights one of the neuro-psychiatric presentations of vitamin B12 deficiency in a previously healthy individual.

Keywords: Vitamin B12 deficiency; acute confusional state; delirium.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Delirium / drug therapy
  • Delirium / etiology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Uganda
  • Vitamin B 12 / administration & dosage
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / complications*
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / diagnosis
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / psychology
  • Vitamin B Complex / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Vitamin B Complex
  • Vitamin B 12