Tremors and thrombocytosis during treatment of megaloblastic anaemia

Ann Trop Paediatr. 2006 Jun;26(2):101-5. doi: 10.1179/146532806X107430.

Abstract

In developing countries, a deficiency of cobalamine and folate contributes significantly to megaloblastic anaemia. Neurological observations in infants and young children with megaloblastic anaemia have included hypotonia, developmental regression, tremors and other abnormal movements. Following therapy with vitamin B12, coarse tremors occurred in six of 51 patients (12%) with megaloblastic anaemia. The tremors, which were noticed initially in the hands and feet, gradually became generalised and disappeared during sleep. They subsided within 5-11 days. Thirteen of 25 (52%) patients developed thrombocytosis between day 3 and week 5 of follow-up. In one child, the platelet count increased to >1300 x 10(9)/L. The importance of recognising these clinical findings during treatment of megaloblastic anaemia is emphasised.

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Megaloblastic / complications*
  • Anemia, Megaloblastic / drug therapy*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Developing Countries*
  • Folic Acid / therapeutic use*
  • Folic Acid Deficiency / complications
  • Folic Acid Deficiency / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • India
  • Infant
  • Platelet Count
  • Thrombocytosis / etiology*
  • Tremor / etiology*
  • Vitamin B 12 / therapeutic use*
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / complications
  • Vitamin B 12 Deficiency / drug therapy

Substances

  • Folic Acid
  • Vitamin B 12