Tongue in b12 deficiency
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Tongue Manifestations in Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is essential for various bodily functions, including DNA synthesis, RNA synthesis, and myelin production, particularly in the spinal cord. Deficiency in this crucial vitamin can lead to a range of neurological symptoms, some of which manifest in the tongue.
Tongue Fasciculations as an Early Sign of B12 Deficiency
Tongue fasciculations, which are visible, spontaneous, and intermittent contractions of muscle fibers, can be an early clinical sign of B12 deficiency. These fasciculations are often associated with motor neuron disorders like ALS but can also occur due to cobalamin deficiency. A case study highlighted a 40-year-old female presenting with progressive fatigue, dysphagia to liquids, and left-sided tongue fasciculations. Despite normal MRI and EMG/NCV results, her low B12 levels (222 pg/mL) confirmed the deficiency. Following B12 supplementation, her symptoms completely resolved within six months .
Lingual Linear Lesions (LLLs) and Severe B12 Deficiency
Lingual linear lesions (LLLs) are another significant oral manifestation of severe vitamin B12 deficiency. These lesions appear on the dorsum, lateral borders, and ventral surface of the tongue. A retrospective study involving 57 patients found that 98.25% of those with LLLs had severe B12 deficiency. The patients responded positively to cobalamin replacement therapy, further validating LLLs as a strong clinical indicator of severe B12 deficiency .
Conclusion
Tongue manifestations such as fasciculations and lingual linear lesions can be critical early indicators of vitamin B12 deficiency. Recognizing these signs can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment, preventing further neurological complications. Physicians should consider B12 deficiency in patients presenting with these specific tongue symptoms, even in the absence of other neurological findings.
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