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Neurology (Expert Forum)
vitamin b12 defiency and neuromuscular disease
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vitamin b12 defiency and neuromuscular disease
by denise-s, Oct 30, 2004 12:00AM
Hello, My father is 72 years old and has been complaining of leg weakness for approx. 2 1/2 years. His B12 level was 107 2 years ago and is 111 now. He has seen a neurologist at Pittsburgh hospital who performed an EMG. This doctor states that my dad is possible ALS. He also has a positive ANA (40 dils, homogenous)
esr (35) and CPK levels of 600 for two years. He was given B12 injections at one per month and told to followup in 3 months with his neurologist. Other than the weakness in his knees, he does not have any other symptoms of als.His doctor stated that the only way to completely dx als is to rule out everything else.
My question is two-fold. First, is his dosage correct to stop neurologic problems due to B12 deficiency? Second, at one time the neurologist mentioned muscle biopsy to rule out poly myositis. Should he have a muscle bx? My father has an appointment at CCF in january. I am concerned that if he isn't receiving the proper dosage of B12 he may not stop the neurolgic problems. Thankyou very much for answering these questions.
esr (35) and CPK levels of 600 for two years. He was given B12 injections at one per month and told to followup in 3 months with his neurologist. Other than the weakness in his knees, he does not have any other symptoms of als.His doctor stated that the only way to completely dx als is to rule out everything else.
My question is two-fold. First, is his dosage correct to stop neurologic problems due to B12 deficiency? Second, at one time the neurologist mentioned muscle biopsy to rule out poly myositis. Should he have a muscle bx? My father has an appointment at CCF in january. I am concerned that if he isn't receiving the proper dosage of B12 he may not stop the neurolgic problems. Thankyou very much for answering these questions.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS, Nov 04, 2004 12:00AM
Without examining your father I cannot tell you if his symptoms are related to B12 deficiency. A level of 111 is low (although I would need to see the labs normal values) and need to be replenished. Injections of B12 can be administered up to 2 times per week depending on the clinical scenario. Unfortunately without seeing your father I cannot make recommendations regarding treatment or other diagnositic studies. I would encourage you to speak with the doctor and ask him/her if they believe the B12 is causing his symptoms. Sorry I could not be of more help. If you would like to be seen earlier at the Clinic, I would encourage you to call the appointment office (216-444-5559) and ask about the cancellation list. Good luck.
the progression of the disease left unchecked is terrible.