Neuropsychiatric manifestations of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies: Data from an inpatient psychiatric department

Abstract

Introduction

The prevalence of vitamin B12 and folate deficiency is significant in the psychiatric population. These deficiencies may be associated with varied neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms, caused by different pathophysiological mechanisms.

Objectives

Characterize the main neuropsychiatric signs and symptoms associated with vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies. Evaluate the prevalence of these vitamins deficiencies in an acute inpatient psychiatric department, dedicated to Affective Disorders.

Aims

To review the clinical significance of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies in psychiatric disorders and reflect on the importance of routine screening in mental health care.

Material and methods

Observational, retrospective and descriptive study, with analysis of clinical and blood tests data concerning the total number of inpatient episodes in 2015. Non-systematic review of the scientific literature.

Results

A small case series of the patients that had folate or B12 deficiency detected is presented. The prevalence of vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies found in our study is in accordance with the data found in the literature.

Conclusions

Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies should be considered in the approach to the psychiatric patient as its neuropsychiatric manifestations are varied, can be severe, and may constitute a potentially treatable cause of mental disorder. Our data shows that folate and B12 deficiencies are significant in inpatients and we believe it justifies routine screening at admission.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.