Correlations between Serum Vitamin B12 Levels and Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO Spectro Disorder) (NMOSD)

Abstract

Background: Considering the potential effects of vitamin B12 on the disease course of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), we aimed to investigate and compare the serum levels of vitamin B12 in patients with NMO and the normal population. Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in Iran in 2020, included 35 seronegative NMOSD patients who were referred to a neurology clinic and 53 healthy controls. Demographic data of all patients, including age and gender, were collected. The serum levels of vitamin B12 were then assessed in all participants. The previous history of NMO annualized relapse rate (ARR) in patients with NMO was also asked, and disability was assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). Findings: The mean serum vitamin B12 levels were 55.4 ± 29.7 in the patient group and 59.3 ± 37.2 in the control group, but no significant differences were observed between the two groups (P = 0.99). A significant inverse correlation was found between the ARR and serum vitamin B12 levels in NMOSD patients (P = 0.04). Pearson correlation analysis showed no significant relationships between disease duration and EDSS with serum levels of vitamin B12 (P = 0.12 and P = 0.08, respectively). Conclusion: Vitamin B12 deficiency might contribute to the NMO disease course and frequency of attacks but no significant differences were observed between levels of vitamin B12 in patients with NMO and healthy controls. However a significant reverse relationship was found between number of ARR and serum levels of vitamin B12 in patients with NMO. © 2025, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.