PSEUDODEMENCE DUE TO VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY – LITERATURE REVIEW

• DOI: 10.22533/at.ed.1593832309103

• Palavras-chave: Pseudodementia; Cognitive impairment; Vitamin B12 deficiency.

• Keywords: Pseudodementia; Cognitive impairment; Vitamin B12 deficiency.

• Abstract:

  Introduction: Dementia is a syndrome with several causes, characterized by the acquired deterioration of cognitive abilities that impair daily activities, and vitamin B12 may be one of these causes (LEIVAS EFL, 2021). Objective: To review the relationship between vitamin B12 deficiency and pseudodementia. Result: In addition to its relationship with macrocytic anemia, vitamin B12 is biochemically important in the transmethylation of neuroactive substances such as myelin and neurotransmitters. One of the other mechanisms by which low levels of vitamin B12 can affect cognition is by disrupting the methylation reaction in the central nervous system (CNS). This can lead to an increase in homocysteine levels, which has direct neurotoxic effects (HOLDEN; WOODS, 2005). Conclusion: Regular screening would lead to early diagnosis and reduce related shortages. However, long-term studies are needed to assess the importance of treating individuals without symptoms (HOLMBERG, 2007).