Iron, vitamin B12 and folate

Abstract

Iron, vitamin B₁₂, and folate are essential for the body’s metabolic reactions. Deficiency of these in isolation or in combination can lead to anaemia and systemic symptoms. Sometimes the systemic symptoms and deficiency can precede the anaemia. Deficiency states are commonly seen in everyday practice so it is vital to be able to recognize and treat them appropriately. Differentiating and diagnosing the cause of anaemia allows clinicians to understand the steps in clinical presentation and the specific investigations. Every effort should be made to determine the cause of the nutritional deficiency and treat it if possible. Transfusion is rarely required and many of these presentations can be successfully treated with a period of supplementation. Patient compliance with treatment is key to successful treatment.