Siriraj Medical Journal (Jan 2008)

Low Serum Vitamin B12 in Alzheimerûs Patients as Detected by a Solid Phase Radioimmunoassay

  • Areechun Sotthibundhu,
  • Doungjai Buntup,
  • Channarong Sanghirun,
  • Korbkit Cherdchu,
  • Cheeraratana Cheeramakara,
  • Sirintorn Chansirikarnjan,
  • Ekapot Nimkulrat,
  • Chesda Udommongkol,
  • Wanna Wongmek,
  • Wipawan Thangnipon

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 60, no. 1

Abstract

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Objective: To determine the relationship between serum levels of vitamin B12 and folate in AD and other types of dementia in Thai patients. Methods: One hundred and eleven Thai subjects were classified into 3 groups: 32 AD patients, 43 non-AD dementia patients and 36 age-matched controls. Serum concentrations of vitamin B12 and folate were measured using a solid phase radioimmunoassay. Results: Serum vitamin B12 levels were found to be significantly lower in AD and non-AD dementia patients than in age-matched controls. There is a significant relationship between Mini-Mental State Examination score and vitamin B12 level in AD and non-AD dementia groups. However, there is no significant difference in serum folate in AD and non-AD dementia groups when compared to age-matched controls. Conclusion: These findings suggest the need for vitamin B12 supplementation in AD and non-AD dementia patients.

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