Title: Vitamin B12 deficiency, an independent risk factor for thromboembolism
Author: Dr Omar Ataallah Mukhlif. MBChB. MRCP (UK)
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i7.167
Abstract
Introduction
Throbomboembolic events are increasingly common and serious live threatening incidents. Among many risk factors, vitamin B12 deficiency is becoming more recognized. We report a case of pulmonary embolism with no risk factors other than vitamin B12 deficiency.
Case Report
54 year old gentleman presented to the Emergency Department early in the morning with sharp left side chest pain and shortness of breath for 1 hour duration. He is normally fit and active and has no significant medical history. However, he reports reduced exercise tolerance over the last month, dyspnoea on exertion, and dry cough. On examination, he looks pale and uncomfortable because of the pain, but otherwise normal. He has no tachypnoea or tachycardia, his calves are soft and not tender, and his spo2 was within normal range.
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