ABSTRACT
Cobalamin (Vitamin B12) is a water-soluble vitamin. Cobalamin is synthesized only by microorganisms. The only source of vitamin B12 for humans is food of animal origin. Hyperpigmentation of skin has been reported only rarely as the presenting manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency. We report a patient who had hyperpigmentation as her presenting medical complaint and in whom Vitamin B12 deficiency was the cause. A 36-year-old female presented with generalised weakness and progressive and asymptomatic hyperpigmentation of hand and feet for 5 months. She is vegetarian by diet. On examination, hyperpigmentation was present over dorsal aspect of metacarpophalangeal, proximal and distal interphalangeal joints. Hyperpigmentation were present over dorsum of the foot and over the joints. The tongue was depaillated, and hyperpigmentation was present. Her serum level of vitamin B12 was diminished (83pg/ml). Megaloblastic anemia presents with protean manifestations. The association between vitamin B12 deficiency and hyperpigmentation, although unusual, has been described. Cutaneous manifestations associated with B12 deficiency include characteristic mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation (most common), vitiligo, angular cheilitis, and hair-nail changes. It mainly affects knuckle pads and oral mucosa. It is an under-recognized sign of megaloblastic anemia and should always be looked for in the setting of pallor. Hyperpigmentation could be the earliest manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency before anemia sets in. It is worthwhile to consider the possibility of vitamin B12 or folate deficiency in a patient with unexplained pigmentary changes. Early detection and adequate treatment will prevent anemia and various neurological manifestations.
ABSTRACT
Background: Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the major challenge in the new millennium in the developing countries as the size of elderly population continues to rise due to betterment of medical facilities and increased life expectancy. Lipids are implicated in the pathogenesis of ARMD. The relationship between systemic lipids and ARMD has not been well characterized, especially in rural population. The objective was to investigate the relationship between serum lipids and ARMD in older adults.Methods: In this case-control study, 300 adults, aged ≥50 years, 150 each among cases and controls were included in the study. Mean lipids values between cases and controls were compared.Results: Mean age of cases was 62.45±8.472 years and mean age of controls was 61.89±8.51 years. Among 150 cases, 124 (82.66%) cases were of dry ARMD while 26 (17.33%) cases were Wet ARMD. Author found that 38 cases among total cases (25.33%) and 15 individuals (10%) among controls had altered lipid profile. All mean lipid values were higher among cases compare to controls (p>0.05), while the mean of VLDL, TG and TG/HDL were significantly raised showing positive association (p<0.05).Conclusions: Present study showed that high levels of serum lipid values especially VLDL, TG and TG/HDL positive association with an increased risk for development of ARMD, implying that strategies reducing serum lipid levels may be useful to prevent the development of the disease.