Measurement of Vitamin B12 and Serum Methylmalonic Acid Levels: Role of Stepwise Cascade Testing in Diagnosing Vitamin B12 Deficiency

ConclusionsThe PA cascade detected B12 deficiency in a significant number of inpatients with low-normal B12 levels that might have otherwise been missed; 28.8% of this group had PA for whom long-term B12 replacement is indicated. As treatment for B12 deficiency is inexpensive, non-toxic, and non-invasive, it is reasonable to evaluate B12 status by cascade testing which may provide additional diagnostic data beyond B12 level. Notable clinical practice findings from this study include the lack of B12 results in 173 of 326 discharge summaries, and no record of B12 supplementation in 22 of 59 patients with B12 deficiency. These gaps in documentation and follow-up may be associated with the relatively long turnaround time of MMA testing. Efforts at improving documentation, communication, and treatment of B12 deficiency are ongoing.DisclosuresNo relevant conflicts of interest to declare.
Source: Blood - Category: Hematology Authors: Tags: 901. Health Services Research-Non-Malignant Conditions: Poster III Source Type: research