A member asked:

How do you know when vitamin b12 deficiency related ataxia and neurological symptoms are reversible or permanent?

9 doctors weighed in across 5 answers
Dr. Rebecca Gliksman answered

Specializes in Internal Medicine

Vit B neuropathy: Would supplement with B12 till blood levels are in the mid normal range ( 500-600 )and keep it consistently there. If after 3 months there is no change in conditions even with PT intervention would do EMG and discuss with neurology. Also test methylmalonic acid and folate deficiency. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16530131/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4208100/

Answered 12/26/2020

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Challenge : We have no clear cut recovery timing as B-12 shots mainly prevent deterioration and not always full reversal. Talk to your doctor about your specific prognosis. Might image upper spinal cord and add EMG

Answered 12/27/2020

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Dr. Krishna Kumar answered

Specializes in Psychiatry

Ataxia/Vitamin. B12: I understand your distress due to Ataxia. Please make a List of: •Onset of Ataxia •Neurological symptoms •Duration •Time of Diagnosis •Time of B12 deficiency •Treatment given •Change in symptoms since that time Then, see a Neurologist for: •Diagnosis •Blood test for Vit. B12 •Dose of Vit. B12 to be given and duration •Likely improvement •Other Tests •Treatment •Your Health is Precious!

Answered 12/26/2020

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Take B12 and see: Treating with B12 would be the best way to see if the ataxia is treatable

Answered 12/27/2020

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Trial of therapy: Depending on how long the deficiency lasted, some or all of the defects may be reversible and you can only find out with a complete therapy. Wish you good health!

Answered 12/27/2020

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