Knuckle hyperpigmentation in a young male: A clinical sign of B12 deficiency not to be missed.

Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency are reversible causes of megaloblastic anemia. Strict vegetarians are at risk of megaloblastic anemia due to low cobalamin in their diet. Knuckle hyperpigmentation in patients with megaloblastic anemia is due to excess melanin synthesis in skin. Here we present a case of a young vegetarian male with megaloblastic anemia with knuckle hyperpigmentation managed successfully with intravenous followed by oral vitamin b12 and folate supplementation.

An Italian case series' description of thiamine responsive megaloblastic anemia syndrome: importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

BACKGROUND: Individuals with thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia (TRMA) mainly manifest macrocytic anemia, sensorineural deafness, ocular complications, and nonautoimmune diabetes. Macrocytic anemia and diabetes may be responsive to high-dosage thiamine treatment, in contrast to sensorineural deafness. Little is known about the efficacy of thiamine treatment on ocular manifestations. CASES PRESENTATION: Our objective is to report data from four Italian TRMA patients: in Cases 1, 2 and 3, the diagnosis of TRMA was made at 9, 14 and 27 months. In 3 out of 4 subjects, thiamine therapy allowed both normalization of hyperglycemia, with consequent insulin suspension, and macrocytic anemia. In all Cases, thiamine therapy did not resolve the clinical manifestation of deafness. In Cases 2 and 3, follow-up showed no blindness, unlike Case 4, in which treatment was started for megaloblastic anemia at age 7 but was increased to high doses only at age 25, when the genetic diagnosis of TRMA was performed. CONCLUSIONS: Early institution of high-dose thiamine supplementation seems to prevent the development of retinal changes and optic atrophy in TRMA patients. The spectrum of clinical manifestations is broad, and it is important to describe known Cases to gain a better understanding of this rare disease.

A New Case of Association of Megaloblastic Anemia and Pancytopenia of Infants.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin B12, or cobalamin deficiency, an infrequent clinical entity in pediatric age, is found almost solely in breastfed infants whose mothers are purely vegetarian, non-supplemented or with pernicious anemia. Megaloblastic anemia in infants presents with generalized weakness or irritability. METHODS: Diagnosis is usually centered on complete blood count, vitamin dosing, and peripheral smear, which may show macrocytes, hypersegmented neutrophils, reticulocytopenia and a raised mean corpuscular volume (MCV ˃ 100 fL). Pancytopenia has also been noted. RESULTS: We report an exclusive breastfed nine-month-old female child who presented with irritability, developmental delay, and difficulties in introducing new foods. Her initial blood count revealed pancytopenia. Vitamin B12 levels were found to be reduced. Maternal levels of Vitamin B12 were also found to be borderline low. The child was treated as per protocols, and improvement was evidenced with the return of hematological parameters to the regular and gradual advancement of milestones. CONCLUSIONS: We aim to underscore the importance of megaloblastic anemia as an important and rare cause of anemia in infancy.

Effect of megaloblastic anemia on hemoglobin A2 and diagnosis of ß-thalassemia trait.

Context: ß-thalassemia trait is usually diagnosed by raised hemoglobin A2 (HbA2). The presence of megaloblastic anemia can cause an increase in HbA2 and create a diagnostic dilemma. Here, we have analyzed the effect of vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation on HbA2 and diagnosis of ß-thalassemia trait in cases of megaloblastic anemia with raised HbA2. Materials and Methods: Cases of megaloblastic anemia with raised HbA2 on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were supplemented with vitamin B12 and folic acid. Post-treatment evaluation was done after 2 months. Cases showing adequate hematological response were subjected to statistical analysis. Based on post-treatment HbA2 value, the cases were diagnosed as normal, borderline raised HbA2, or ß-thalassemia trait. Pre- and post-treatment values of red cell parameters and HbA2 were analyzed. Results: There was a significant decrease in HbA2 value after vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation. The diagnosis was changed in 70.97% of the cases after treatment. The chance of inconclusive diagnosis was decreased from more than 50% to less than 10%. Pre-treatment mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and HbA2% showed a significant difference between the thalassemic and normal groups. Conclusions: Megaloblastic anemia can lead to false-positive diagnosis of ß-thalassemia trait on HPLC. Repeat HPLC should be done after adequate supplementation of vitamin B12 and folic acid in cases of megaloblastic anemia with raised HbA2. Red cell parameters are not helpful to suspect ß-thalassemia trait in presence of megaloblastic anemia. However, HbA2% on HPLC can be a useful parameter to suspect or exclude ß-thalassemia trait in cases of megaloblastic anemia.

Thiamine-Responsive Megaloblastic Anaemia With Hypothyroidism, A Puzzling Association.

Background: Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anaemia (TRMA) is characterized by the classic trio of diabetes mellitus, sensorineural hearing loss, and megaloblastic anaemia, typically emerging subtly between infancy and adolescence. Administration of high-dose thiamine often yields improvements in anaemia and occasionally in diabetes. Uncommon manifestations include optic atrophy, congenital heart defects, short stature, and stroke. In this specific case, a 5-year-old diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) since the age of one presented with symptoms such as polyuria, fever, and vomiting, revealing an HbA1c of 10.64. Further examinations disclosed compromised hearing and vision. A negative antibody workup and a thyroid profile indicating hypothyroidism prompted additional investigations, including Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry (BERA) and retinal examination, confirming bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and maculopathy, respectively. A comprehensive blood count unveiled megaloblastic anaemia. Genetic profiling confirmed a homozygous mutation in the SLC19A2 gene, thus diagnosing TRMA. An early diagnosis, coupled with genetic confirmation, enables timely intervention, with patients responding positively to high-dose thiamine. Genetic counselling plays a pivotal role in enlightening families about the disease and its inheritance patterns, fostering awareness and understanding.

Leber congenital amaurosis as an initial manifestation in a Chinese patient with thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia syndrome.

Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia syndrome (TRMA) is an autosomal recessive disorder, inherited by the defective SLC19A2 gene that encodes a high-affinity thiamine transporter (THTR-1). TRMA is characterized by the occurrence of classical triad manifestations including megaloblastic anemia, diabetes mellitus, and sensorineural deafness. In addition to the systemic manifestations, ophthalmic features can be present and include retinitis pigmentosa, optic atrophy, cone-rod dystrophy, maculopathy, and Leber congenital amaurosis. Here we report a 6-year-old boy presenting severe early-onset retinal dystrophy with the initial diagnosis of Leber congenital amaurosis, which followed for 12 years. Diabetes mellitus occurred 3 years after vision problem. Eosinophilic granuloma of the left scapula was confirmed at 13 years old. Whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify two novel compound heterozygous variants c.725dupC (p.Ala243Serfs*3) and c.121G>A (p.Gly41Ser) in SLC19A2 gene (NM_006996.3). Oral thiamine supplementation treatment was initiated at 13 years. This case demonstrates Leber congenital amaurosis can present as the first clinical feature before systemic manifestations. Phenotypic variety should be aware and multidisciplinary teamwork and regular follow-up are important for TRMA patient care.

Megaloblastic anemia-related iron overload and erythroid regulators: a case report.

BACKGROUND: In ineffective erythropoiesis, hepcidin synthesis is suppressed by erythroid regulators, namely erythroferrone and growth differentiation factor-15. For the first time, the hypothesis that iron overload in megaloblastic anemia may be related to ineffective erythropoiesis is explored by describing the kinetics of hepcidin, erythroferrone, and growth differentiation factor-15 levels in a patient diagnosed with megaloblastic anemia associated with iron overload. CASE PRESENTATION: An 81-year-old Caucasian male was admitted for fatigue. He had type-2 diabetes previously treated with metformin, ischemic cardiac insufficiency, and stage-3 chronic kidney disease. Vitiligo was observed on both hands. Biological tests revealed normocytic non-regenerative anemia associated with hemolysis, thrombocytopenia, and elevated sideremia, ferritin, and transferrin saturation levels. Megaloblastic anemia was confirmed with undetectable blood vitamin B12 and typical cytological findings like hyper-segmented neutrophils in blood and megaloblasts in bone marrow. The patient received vitamin B12 supplementation. At 3 months, biological parameters reached normal values. Hepcidin kinetics from diagnosis to 3 months inversely correlated with those of erythroferrone and growth differentiation factor-15. CONCLUSIONS: This case suggests that iron-overload mechanisms of dyserythropoietic anemias may apply to megaloblastic anemias.

Imerslund-Grasbeck syndrome in a cross-breed dog.

Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease reported only in certain pure-breed dogs. An 18-month-old, male neutered beagle cross-breed was presented for evaluation of severe lethargy, progressive weakness and anorexia. Main clinicopathological findings included low body condition score (2.5/9), severe muscle atrophy, several neurological abnormalities, mild normochromic, normocytic, non-regenerative anaemia, severe hypocobalaminemia and mild proteinuria. Extensive diagnostic tests ruled out most of differential diagnoses for the aforementioned clinicopathological abnormalities and genetic evaluation showed that the dog was heterozygous for two previously described mutations affecting the CUBN gene, the beagle and the border collie variants. The dog showed an excellent clinical response to oral cobalamin supplementation with no relapse after 4 months. In conclusion, this case creates awareness that Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome should be considered even in mixed-breed dogs with compatible clinical signs and that two different pathogenic CUBN mutations in compound heterozygosity can lead to a typical Imerslund-Gräsbeck syndrome phenotype.

Megaloblastic anaemia in a 9-weeks old infant: A case report.

Megaloblastic anaemia due to vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency is uncommon in infancy and rarely reported in infants below 3 months of age. We hereby report a case of megaloblastic anaemia in a 9-weeks old infant having fever from 7th week of life. Blood picture showed pancytopenia and diagnosis was confirmed on bone marrow biopsy and serum level of vitamins. Patient positively responded to vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation. Infants with pancytopenia even younger than 2 months, should also be investigated for vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. Mother of the baby was not antenatally investigated for anaemia. Prompt antenatal diagnosis and treatment of mothers can reduce the incidence in the infants.

Vitamin B12 deficiency as a cause of severe neurological symptoms in breast fed infant - a case report.

BACKGROUND: Vitamin B12 (cobalamin, cbl) deficiency in children is rare and may occurs in exclusively breast fed infants of mothers on vegetarian or vegan diet with lack of appropriate supplementation. The clinical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency include neurological disorders, megaloblastic anemia and failure to thrive. Routine and commonly used laboratory tests such as cell blood count (CBC) or serum vitamin B12 level are sufficient for appropriate diagnosis. Typical therapy is based on intramuscular cobalamin injections. Early diagnosis and early onset of treatment are crucial factors for long-term prognosis of patients as the duration of deficiency may be correlated with the development of long lasting changes in the nervous system. The purpose of this article is to present influence of maternal vitamin B12 deficiency as a cause of infant psychomotor retardation. CASE PRESENTATION: We report the case of a 7 months old girl whose parents sought medical advice due to pathological somnolence and developmental regression of their daughter with onset approximately 2 months prior to the visit. Following several diagnostic tests it was determined that the infant's symptoms were due to vitamin B12 deficiency which was secondary to the mother's latent Addison-Biermer disease. Apart from neurological symptoms the infant also showed megaloblastic anemia which is typical to cobalamin deficiencies. Intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation resulted in instant improvement of the patient's general condition and blood morphology. Unfortunately, psychological examination indicated long-term psychomotor retardation due to delayed diagnosis of B12 deficiency. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin B12 levels should be considered during differential diagnosis of neurological symptoms in exclusively breast-fed infants especially if they co-exist with megaloblastic anemia and psychomotor retardation.

Severe megaloblastic anemia: Vitamin deficiency and other causes.

Megaloblastic anemia causes macrocytic anemia from ineffective red blood cell production and intramedullary hemolysis. The most common causes are folate (vitamin B9) deficiency and cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency. Megaloblastic anemia can be diagnosed based on characteristic morphologic and laboratory findings. However, other benign and neoplastic diseases need to be considered, particularly in severe cases. Therapy involves treating the underlying cause-eg, with vitamin supplementation in cases of deficiency, or with discontinuation of a suspected medication.

[Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia or Rogers syndrome: A literature review]. / L'anémie mégaloblastique thiamine dépendante ou syndrome de Rogers : une revue de la littérature.

Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia (TRMA), also known as Rogers syndrome, is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by three main components: megaloblastic anemia, diabetes mellitus and sensorineural deafness. Those features occur in infancy but may arise during adolescence. Diagnosis relies on uncovering genetic variations (alleles) in the SLC19A2 gene, encoding for a high affinity thiamine transporter. This transporter is essentially present in hematopoietic stem cells, pancreatic beta cells and inner ear cells, explaining the clinical manifestations of the disease. Based on a multidisciplinary approach, treatment resides on lifelong thiamine oral supplementation at pharmacological doses, which reverses anemia and may delay development of diabetes. However, thiamine supplementation does not alleviate already existing hearing defects.

Pancytopenia in an adult patient with thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anaemia.

Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anaemia (TRMA) is a syndrome associated with megaloblastic anaemia, diabetes mellitus and sensorineural deafness, due to mutations in the SLC19A2 gene, which codes for a thiamine carrier protein. Oral thiamine supplementation is the main treatment. We report the case of a 25-year-old woman known for TRMA, who presented with pancytopenia (haemoglobin 7.6 g/dL, leucocytes 2.9×109/L, thrombocytes 6×109/L) revealed by dyspnoea. Investigations excluded coagulopathy, a recent viral infection, vitamin and iron deficiencies, and a malignant process. We later found out that thiamine treatment had been discontinued 5 weeks before, due to prescription error. Parenteral thiamine administration resulted in the recovery of haematopoiesis within 3 weeks. Pancytopenia is uncommon in patients with TRMA. Pre-existing medullary impairment caused by the patient's daily antipsychotic medications or the natural course of the syndrome may explain the severity of the laboratory findings in our patient.

Precision Molecular Diagnosis Defines Specific Therapy in Combined Immunodeficiency with Megaloblastic Anemia Secondary to MTHFD1 Deficiency.

BACKGROUND: Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase (MTHFD1) deficiency has recently been reported to cause a folate-responsive syndrome displaying a phenotype that includes megaloblastic anemia and severe combined immunodeficiency. OBJECTIVE: To describe our investigative approach to the molecular diagnosis and evaluation of immune dysfunction in a family with MTHFD1 deficiency. METHODS: The methods used were exome sequencing and analysis of variants in genes involved in the folate metabolic pathway in a family with 2 affected siblings. Routine laboratory and research data were analyzed to gain an in-depth understanding of innate, humoral, and cell-mediated immune function before and after folinic acid supplementation. RESULTS: Interrogation of exome data for concordant variants between the siblings in the genes involved in folate metabolic pathway identified a heterozygous mutation in exon 3 of the MTHFD1 gene that was shared with their mother. In view of highly suggestive phenotype, we extended our bioinformatics interrogation for structural variants in the MTHFD1 gene by manual evaluation of the exome data for sequence depth coverage of all the exons. A deletion involving exon 13 that was shared with their father was identified. Routine laboratory data showed lymphopenia involving all subsets and poor response to vaccines. In vitro analysis of dendritic cell and lymphocyte function was comparable to that in healthy volunteers. Treatment with folinic acid led to immune reconstitution, enabling discontinuation of all prophylactic therapies. CONCLUSIONS: Exome sequencing demonstrated MTHFD1 deficiency as a novel cause of a combined immunodeficiency. Folinic acid was established as precision therapy to reverse the clinical and laboratory phenotype of this primary immunodeficiency.

Severe combined immunodeficiency resulting from mutations in MTHFD1.

Folate and vitamin B(12) metabolism are essential for de novo purine synthesis, and several defects in these pathways have been associated with immunodeficiency. Here we describe the occurrence of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) with megaloblastic anemia, leukopenia, atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome, and neurologic abnormalities in which hydroxocobalamin and folate therapy provided partial immune reconstitution. Whole exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous mutations in the MTHFD1 gene, which encodes a trifunctional protein essential for processing of single-carbon folate derivatives. We now report the immunologic details of this novel genetic cause of SCID and the response to targeted metabolic supplementation therapies. This finding expands the known metabolic causes of SCID and presents an important diagnostic consideration given the positive impact of therapy.

Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia (TRMA) in an Austrian boy with compound heterozygous SLC19A2 mutations.

Thiamine-responsive megaloblastic anemia (TRMA) is a rare disorder typically characterized by megaloblastic anemia, non-type I diabetes and sensorineural deafness. It is caused by various mutations in the SLC19A2 gene that impair the encoded thiamine transporter. So far, only 70 affected individuals mainly from consanguineous families of Middle and Far Eastern origin with a wide spectrum of signs and symptoms, variable onset of disease, and primarily homozygote mutations in SLC19A2 have been reported. We present the first genuine central European descendent with combined heterozygote mutations in SLC19A2, an Austrian boy suffering from pancytopenia and non-type I diabetes. Both manifestations resolved completely under continuous oral thiamine supplementation. Our observation underlines that despite its rarity, TRMA must be considered as an important differential diagnosis in native central European patients with suggestive signs and symptoms. An early molecular genetic verification of the diagnosis provides a sound basis for a successful and simple treatment that helps to prevent severe sequelae.

Molecular study of proteinuria in patients treated with B12 supplements: do not forget megaloblastic anemia type 1.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Current consensus supports the notion that proteinuria is a marker of renal disease with prognostic implications. Whereas most chronic kidney disease patients with proteinuria would often require antiproteinuric agents, there are some exceptions. Megaloblastic anemia type 1 (MGA1) is characterized by megaloblastic anemia due to congenital selective vitamin B(12) malabsorption and proteinuria. In the present study, we describe 2 Israeli Jewish patients with MGA1 and isolated proteinuria. METHODS: Because of their origin, the patients were screened for the presence of the already studied Tunisian AMN mutation, by direct sequencing the corresponding region from genomic DNA. PCR products were purified and sequenced. RESULTS: Genomic DNA sequencing of the AMN gene of both patients confirmed that the acceptor splice site in intron 3 was changed from CAG to CGG (208-2A→G). CONCLUSION: We determined the molecular basis of MGA1 in both patients and discuss the involvement of the cubilin/AMN complex in this pathology and its role in the development of the proteinuria. We also discuss the questionable significance of antiproteinuric treatment for these patients.

Severe megaloblastic anaemia in an infant.

Vitamin B(12) or cobalamin deficiency, a rare clinical entity in pediatric age, is found most exclusively in breastfed infants, whose mothers are strictly vegetarian non-supplemented or with pernicious anaemia. In this article, the authors describe a 10-month-old infant admitted for vomiting, refusal to eat and prostration. The infant was exclusively breastfed and difficulties in introduction of new foods were reported. Failure to thrive since 5 months of age was also noticed. Laboratory evaluation revealed severe normocytic normochromic anaemia and cobalamin deficit. A diagnosis of α-thalassemia trait was also made. Maternal investigation showed autoimmune pernicious anaemia. This case shows the severity of vitamin B(12) deficiency and the importance of adopting adequate and precocious measures in order to prevent potentially irreversible neurologic damage.

Síndrome Neuroanémico en el anciano: reporte de un caso / Neuroanemic Syndrome in elder people: report of a case

Se presenta un paciente de 70 años de edad que ingresa por presentar sensación de calambres en miembros inferiores, acompañados de trastornos por inestabilidad de la marcha y que además presentaba cifras bajas de hemoglobinas que al estudiarla resultó ser una anemia megaloblástica. Esta enfermedad es la expresión de un trastorno madurativo de los precursores eritroides y mieloides, que da lugar a una hematopoyesis ineficaz y cuyas causas más frecuentes son el déficit de vitamina B 12 y/o de ácido fólico. La deficiencia de vitamina B12 afecta al sistema nervioso y, aunque sus síntomas son manifiestos (hormigueo en manos y pies, y pérdida de sensibilidad en piernas, pies y manos), muchas veces los ancianos los asocian a la falta de movilidad y al propio envejecimiento, lo que dificulta su identificación a tiempo. En muchas ocasiones, el diagnóstico llega cuando las afectaciones neurológicas y mentales (confusión, depresión y deficiente función intelectual) son evidentes, entonces el deterioro puede ser ya irreversible y desembocar en una demencia y daño axonal irreversible. La relevancia de este caso radica en lo infrecuente de la forma clínica de expresión de esta entidad en nuestro medio(AU)

We present the case of a 70-years-old patient entering our service presenting symptoms of cramps sensation in the lower limbs and disturbances for motion stability, presenting also low values of hemoglobin, resulting in a megaloblastic anemia after a study. This disease is the expression of a maturing disturbance of the erythroid and myeloid precursors, leading to an inefficacious hematopoiesis most frequently caused by vitamin B12 and/or folic acid deficiency. The deficiency of vitamin B12 affects the nervous system, and although its symptoms are clear (crawling in feet and hands), elder people associate them with the proper aging and lack of mobility, making difficult its opportune identification. In many occasions the diagnosis is made when neurological and mental affectations (confusion, depression, and deficient intellectual function) are evident. The deterioration then is irreversible and ended in irreversible dementia and axonal damage. The relevance of this case is based on the infrequentness of the clinical form this entity expresses in our settings(AU)

Síndrome Neuroanémico en el anciano: reporte de un caso / Neuroanemic Syndrome in elder people: report of a case

Se presenta un paciente de 70 años de edad que ingresa por presentar sensación de calambres en miembros inferiores, acompañados de trastornos por inestabilidad de la marcha y que además presentaba cifras bajas de hemoglobinas que al estudiarla resultó ser una anemia megaloblástica. Esta enfermedad es la expresión de un trastorno madurativo de los precursores eritroides y mieloides, que da lugar a una hematopoyesis ineficaz y cuyas causas más frecuentes son el déficit de vitamina B 12 y/o de ácido fólico. La deficiencia de vitamina B12 afecta al sistema nervioso y, aunque sus síntomas son manifiestos (hormigueo en manos y pies, y pérdida de sensibilidad en piernas, pies y manos), muchas veces los ancianos los asocian a la falta de movilidad y al propio envejecimiento, lo que dificulta su identificación a tiempo. En muchas ocasiones, el diagnóstico llega cuando las afectaciones neurológicas y mentales (confusión, depresión y deficiente función intelectual) son evidentes, entonces el deterioro puede ser ya irreversible y desembocar en una demencia y daño axonal irreversible. La relevancia de este caso radica en lo infrecuente de la forma clínica de expresión de esta entidad en nuestro medio.

We present the case of a 70-years-old patient entering our service presenting symptoms of cramps sensation in the lower limbs and disturbances for motion stability, presenting also low values of hemoglobin, resulting in a megaloblastic anemia after a study. This disease is the expression of a maturing disturbance of the erythroid and myeloid precursors, leading to an inefficacious hematopoiesis most frequently caused by vitamin B12 and/or folic acid deficiency. The deficiency of vitamin B12 affects the nervous system, and although its symptoms are clear (crawling in feet and hands), elder people associate them with the proper aging and lack of mobility, making difficult its opportune identification. In many occasions the diagnosis is made when neurological and mental affectations (confusion, depression, and deficient intellectual function) are evident. The deterioration then is irreversible and ended in irreversible dementia and axonal damage. The relevance of this case is based on the infrequentness of the clinical form this entity expresses in our settings.