INFANTILE MEGALOBLASTOSIS SECONDARY TO MATERNAL VITAMIN-B-12 DEFICIENCY

We reviewed six cases of infantile megaloblastosis secondary to matern al vitamin B-12 deficiency, the most common cause of infantile megalob lastosis in our institution. Two patients had long-term neurological s equelae, with a further patient remaining abnormal but at short follow -up. In 50% of cases the mother was asymptomatic, with subtle or no pe ripheral blood abnormalities, having early pernicious anaemia. Any inf ant which fails to thrive, with progressive neurological deterioration and haematological cytopenias should have their vitamin B-12 and fola te status rapidly assessed. This is one of the few potentially reversi ble causes of failure to thrive and neurological deterioration. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent significant long-term sequelae.