Dermatologic Manifestations in Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A Review

Abstract

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin primarily obtained from animal-based foods. It is crucial for hematopoietic cell formation, with methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin being its active forms. The metabolic process involves stomach release, binding to proteins, and absorption in the ileum with intrinsic factor. The liver stores B12, but deficiency can occur due to dietary, absorption, transportation, or metabolic issues. Causes of low B12 levels include dietary choices, gastrointestinal diseases, and medications likemetformin. Dermatological changes associated with deficiency, such as hyperpigmentation, can occur, possibly due to decreased glutathione and increased melanin production. Vitamin B12 deficiency has a wide range of symptoms, from asymptomatic to severe neurological impairments, but its dermatologic effects have been under-represented in literature.” Keywords: Vitamin B12 deficiency, dermatologic manifestations