Neurologic symptoms are associated with which deficiency?

Vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with a variety of neurologic symptoms due to its crucial role in the formation of myelin, the protective sheath that surrounds nerve fibers. This deficiency can lead to subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord, affecting both the dorsal columns and the corticospinal tract, resulting in symptoms such as weakness, numbness, and balance issues. Patients may also experience peripheral neuropathy, cognitive changes, and even psychiatric symptoms.

This neurologic involvement is specifically tied to the impaired synthesis of myelin, as well as alterations in DNA synthesis and hematopoiesis. In contrast, while folate deficiency primarily affects hematopoiesis leading to megaloblastic anemia, its neurologic impacts are less pronounced and do not typically present with the same spectrum of symptoms. Iron deficiency mainly presents with fatigue and anemia, and is not directly associated with neurologic deficits. Copper deficiency, while it can cause neurologic problems, is less common and not as frequently tested in the context of standard deficiencies.

Therefore, the hallmark of neurologic manifestations in the context of vitamin deficiency is most prominently tied to vitamin B12 deficiency, underscoring its critical importance in nervous system function.