CLINICAL PRESENTATION OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS AT A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE

Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common and preventable problem in children. If not treated, it can cause serious nerve and blood-related problems. In areas where many people follow a vegetarian diet and malnutrition is common, this deficiency is often not properly reported. This study aims to look at the symptoms and possible causes of vitamin B12 deficiency in affected children. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Rani Durgavati Medical College from 1 June 2025 to 31 De-cember 2025. It included 110 children aged 0–18 years who had vitamin B12 deficiency. Information was collected about their diet, appetite, neurological symptoms, and other health conditions. Laboratory tests were done to check hemoglobin levels, peripheral blood smear, vitamin B12 levels, and platelet count. Informed consent was taken from the guardians of all participants.