Subacute combined degeneration as a manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency: Presentation of a case
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Abstract
Disorders secondary to vitamin B12 deficiency encompass neuropsychiatric and hematologic symptoms. They represent a diagnostic challenge. We present the case of a 57-year-old female with chronic diarrhea associated with quadriparesis, proprioceptive and vibratory deficit, and gait impairment secondary to intestinal malabsorption syndrome and vitamin B12 deficiency. Parenteral supplementation was initiated with partial improvement; however, the patient was readmitted due to persistent symptoms, requiring the reassumption of supplementation, which led to the progressive recovery of neurological function. Hyperreflexia, hypopalesthesia and sensory ataxia have been reported as manifestations of subacute combined degeneration (SCD) secondary to vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 replacement therapy leads to symptoms improvement, underscoring the importance of timely diagnosis and management.
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