Solid food refusal as the presenting sign of vitamin B12 deficiency in a breastfed infant
- نوع فایل : کتاب
- زبان : انگلیسی
- مؤلف : Els Ide & Stephanie Van Biervliet & Joke Thijs & Saskia Vande Velde & Ruth De Bruyne & Myriam Van Winckel
- چاپ و سال / کشور: 2011
Description
Dietary vitamin B12 (vitB12) deficiency, although common in the elderly, is rare in childhood. We report on an exclusively breastfed 8-month-old infant, presenting with persistent refusal of solid foods. Three months later, developmental regression and failure to thrive led to the diagnosis of vitB12 deficiency, as a consequence of a subclinical pernicious anaemia with vitB12 deficiency in the mother. Treating the infant with parenteral vitB12 induced prompt recovery including acceptance of weaning food. Conclusion: This case illustrates refusal of complementary foods as a presenting symptom of vitB12 deficiency in a breastfed infant. Symptoms, diagnostic tests and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency are reviewed. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent irreversible neurological damage.
Eur J Pediatr DOI 10.1007/s00431-011-1522-6 Received: 22 April 2011 / Accepted: 21 June 2011
