B-12 defeciency

My son was diagnosed with a b-12 deficiencty weightloss, extreme anxiety, confusion, shaking. He now gets weekly b-12 shots he much better. he skipped the shots for 3 weeks and started to have symptoms again he has been back on the shots and still isn't himself. I'm concerned because everyone says he shouldn't need weekly shots. Also when his blood was tested his liver enzymes were off. the doctors said no big deal. I would like him to have further testing but who do I take him to? Also he is mildly mentally retarded could there possibly be a connection with the B-12. He is taking HCI with his meals. He takes 5 capusles and never gets a burning. I would really like to find out what is going on. Who specialized in this kind of thing?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

B-12 deficiency is pretty uncommon in children.  It can happen in those who were exclusively breast-fed by vegetarian mothers.  That being said, I would consider evaluation for a variety of GI causes - including malabsorption, small bowel disease or H Pylori infection.

Regarding the liver enzymes, you can consider further evaluation with an ultrasound or blood tests looking for hepatitis.  

The specialist that can help would be a gastroenterologist.  Specialized testing (i.e. an endoscopy, Schilling's test to diagnosie true b-12 deficiency) can be considered in conjunction with the speciaist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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