High prevalence of cobalamin deficiency in the elderly.
In summary, we have shown that there is a high prevalence of Cbl deficiency in the elderly. This observation is based on an increase in the number of low and low normal serum Cbl levels, an increase in elevated serum total homocysteine levels that correct with Cbl therapy, and an increase in elevated serum methylmalonic acid levels that also correct with Cbl therapy. These observations may be of great clinical importance since Cbl deficiency may be a common and treatable cause of vascular disease.
Allen
R H
RH
Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Heath Sciences Center, Denver 80220, USA.
Lindenbaum
J
J
Stabler
S P
SP
D000368:Aged; D006402:Hematologic Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D006710:Homocysteine / Q000097:blood / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D008764:Methylmalonic Acid / Q000378:metabolism; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D014652:Vascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology; D014805:Vitamin B 12 / Q000097:blood; D014806:Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism*
D006710:Homocysteine; D008764:Methylmalonic Acid; D014805:Vitamin B 12