THE EFFECTS OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY.

Vitamin B12 is one of the most important B vitamins. This vitamin has an important role in cellular metabolism and is also associated with folate and vitamin B6 metabolism. Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs as a result of some diseases, the use of certain medications, or inadequate nutrition. It primarily affects the elderly and women, but is also common among the pediatric population. The B12 deficiency mostly affects the functions of the nervous and hematopoietic systems but it can also affect the skin, heart, bones, and eyes. The treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency includes oral or intramuscular vitamin B12 supplementation according to different treatment regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]