B12 Deficiency Myelitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is the cause of B12 deficiency?
A
MALABSORPTION Damage to distal ileum - Crohns - Gastrectomy - Pernicious anaemia
Alcoholism
2
Q
What is the pathology of B12 deficiency myelitis?
A
Peripheral neuropathy
- Loss of distal sensation and motor
- Axonal damage in alcoholism
3
Q
Symptoms of B12 deficiency myelopathy?
A
- Glove stocking pattern of sensory and motor loss
- Postural hypotension
4
Q
Signs of B12 def myelopathy?
A
LMN signs
- Loss of reflexes
- Muscle wasting
5
Q
Investigations?
A
FBC
B12 levels
6
Q
Pharmacological treatment?
A
Immediate s/c B12 injection
7
Q
Other treatment?
A
Physiotherapy for paraplegia
Give time for rubrospinal takeover
