Are We Missing Vitamin B12 Deficiency in the Primary Care Setting?

Lack of Clinical Evidence Regarding the Guidelines for Vitamin B12 Deficiency: An Analysis From Literature and Recommendations From Clinical Practice

BACKGROUND

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a critical medical condition that, if left untreated, can lead to severe symptoms and potentially serious and life-threatening complications. Clinical guidelines are designed to provide a standardized approach to diagnosis and treatment, aiming for consistency and effectiveness. However, it is well-established that not all patients fit into general guidelines.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinical relevance of the submitted research to support these protocols for diagnosing and treating a B12 deficiency.

APPROACH

Conducting a literature review of the references focused and used on diagnosing and treating vitamin B12 deficiency in adults and children.

RESULTS

No robust clinical trial nor RCT has been found to back up the current protocols. The research used is primarily based on assumptions rather than solid clinical evidence.

CONCLUSION

Existing guidelines for vitamin B12 deficiency need to be significantly revised and improved through clinical research, clinical experience by experts in the field with input from patient groups worldwide.