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B12 deficiency – vegan — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateGIB12 deficiency – veganRACP Paediatrics

A 6-month-old breastfed infant of a vegan mother has developmental regression, hypotonia, and macrocytic anaemia with hypersegmented neutrophils. Methylmalonic acid elevated. What deficiency?

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Correct answer: A — Vitamin B12 deficiency

Macrocytic anaemia with neurological symptoms in a breastfed infant of a vegan mother is B12 deficiency. Urgent IM hydroxocobalamin needed; neurological damage may be irreversible.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – Nutritional Deficiencies CPG