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Solid food refusal as the presenting sign of vitamin B12 deficiency in a breastfed infant

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Abstract

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.

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Abbreviations

VitB12 :

Vitamin B12

nl:

Normal values

RDA:

Recommended Dietary Allowance

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Correspondence to Stephanie Van Biervliet.

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Ide, E., Van Biervliet, S., Thijs, J. et al. Solid food refusal as the presenting sign of vitamin B12 deficiency in a breastfed infant. Eur J Pediatr 170, 1453–1455 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-011-1522-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-011-1522-6

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