Vitamin b rash
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Vitamin B and Skin Reactions: A Comprehensive Overview
Vitamin B2 and Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease Rash
Therapeutic Effects of Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, has been studied for its potential benefits in treating hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD). A study involving 90 children with HFMD investigated the effects of vitamin B2 as an adjuvant treatment alongside antiviral therapy. The results indicated that while vitamin B2 significantly shortened the time for active feeding and ulcer healing, it did not show a statistically significant difference in the time for defervescence and rash retrogression compared to the control group1. This suggests that while vitamin B2 may aid in some aspects of HFMD recovery, its impact on rash resolution is limited.
Vitamin B12 and Allergic Skin Reactions
Cobalt-Induced Urticaria from Vitamin B12 Injections
Vitamin B12, particularly in its injectable form, has been associated with various cutaneous reactions, including urticaria. A case study highlighted a woman who developed chronic urticarial plaques after starting intramuscular vitamin B12 injections. The reaction was suspected to be due to cobalt, a central metal ion in the vitamin B12 molecule. Prick and patch testing confirmed a cobalt allergy, and discontinuation of the vitamin B12 injections led to the resolution of the urticarial plaques2. This case underscores the importance of considering cobalt allergy in patients presenting with skin reactions following vitamin B12 supplementation.
Systemic Allergic Dermatitis to Cobalt in Vitamin B12
Another case involved a 69-year-old woman who developed a persistent erythematous-squamous rash after long-term oral vitamin B12 supplementation. Patch testing revealed a positive reaction to cobalt chloride, leading to a diagnosis of systemic allergic dermatitis (SDRIFE subtype). Discontinuation of the vitamin B12 supplements resulted in complete resolution of the dermatitis3. This further supports the link between cobalt in vitamin B12 and allergic skin reactions.
Topical Vitamin B12 for Eczema
Efficacy in Childhood Eczema
Topical vitamin B12 has been explored as a treatment for atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema. A double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study evaluated its effectiveness in children aged 6 months to 18 years. The study found that skin treated with topical vitamin B12 showed significant improvement compared to placebo-treated skin at both 2 and 4 weeks4. This suggests that topical vitamin B12 could be a viable alternative treatment for eczema in children, potentially offering a safer option compared to topical steroids.
Conclusion
Vitamin B2 and B12 have distinct roles and effects on skin conditions. While vitamin B2 may aid in certain aspects of HFMD recovery, its impact on rash resolution is minimal. On the other hand, vitamin B12, particularly in its injectable form, can cause allergic skin reactions due to cobalt. However, topical vitamin B12 shows promise as an effective treatment for childhood eczema. Understanding these nuances is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies and managing potential adverse reactions.
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