DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Objective: This systematic review article aims to compile and analyze the scientific evidence on the diagnosis and management of Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia in pediatric patients, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date view, identifying gaps in research, and guiding future investigations and clinical practices. Methodology: The systematic review used the PVO strategy (population, variable and objective) to formulate the guiding question. The searches were performed in the PubMed Central (PMC) database with five descriptors combined with the Boolean term "AND": Vitamin B12 Deficiency, Child Growth, Child Development Disorders, Malnutrition, pediatrics. A total of 150 articles were found, of which 23 were selected after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 13 were used to compose the collection. Results: Essential for DNA production, methylation, and neurotransmitter synthesis, vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in neurological and hematopoietic development. Deficiency can lead to disorders such as megaloblastic anemia and irreversible neurological damage, especially in children and during pregnancy. Laboratory evaluation should include serum cobalamin measurement, methylmalonic acid, and homocysteine. Clinical trials show that supplementation improves motor development in children with suboptimal levels of vitamin B12. Conclusion: Early identification and prompt treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency are essential to prevent serious complications. Proper supplementation is crucial for at-risk populations, such as pregnant women, young children, and individuals following vegan or vegetarian diets. The relationship between maternal vitamin B12 levels and neonatal outcomes still requires further investigation. Vitamin B12 deficiency is a public health problem that needs continued attention and additional research to improve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.