Background:
Vitamin B12 is one of the common drugs used by physicians to treat peripheral neuropathy (PN), although
many patients have a good response, however, overdose and toxicity aggravate the condition and worsen the patient’s
symptoms. The purpose of this paper is to highlight association between Vitamin B12 toxicity and deterioration of PN
symptoms.
Case Summary:
An elder Sudanese man with acute onset of sensory PN, the patient’s symptoms started by tingling
sensations and paresthesia affecting both hands and feet. After patient received cobalamin (vitamin B 12) prescribed by
his doctor, the patient symptoms were markedly aggravated and his condition worsened to extend that impaired the
normal patient ordinary work. No symptoms related to motor system. Other possible etiologies were studied and excluded.
Investigations of his condition revealed blood level of B12 was 1900 pg/mL, the patient condition improved dramatically
with discontinuation of the drug.
Conclusion
Cobalamin toxicity aggravate sensory PN symptoms. Clinicians are advised to adjust the dose and check
Cobalamin level before and during treatment to avoid its toxicity.
Peripheral Nervous System Diseases
;
Vitamin B 12