Causes and risk factors
Deficiency of vitamin B12 occurs as a result of associated protein energy malnutrition. Other causes include alcoholism, inadequate diet in vitamin B2 rich foods, impaired liver function, side effects of medications like anti-retroviral.
Clinical presentation
Patient presents with lesions at corner of mouth and lips (cheilosis), sore throat. There is redness of the mouth, cracking of the lips and angle of the mouth (angular stomatitis). Inflammation of the tongue (glossitis) can occur. Seborrheic dermatitis may develop. Patient suffers from anemia.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine hemogram is advised. Serum vitamin B2 can be obtained.
Treatment
Ariboflavinosis is treated with eating diet that is rich in vitamin B2 (riboflavin). Foods that are a rich source of vitamin B2 are meats, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, leafy green vegetables and whole grains, soybean, mushroom, almonds, and turkey. Cases with weak liver function will require intravenous supplementation.
