CRIPPLED BY CRASH DIETING: FOLATE AND B12 DEFICIENCY UNMASKED

Peripheral neuropathy in adolescents is uncommon and often associated with metabolic, genetic, or nutritional deficiencies. This case report describes a 16-year-old boy who presented with progressive distal upper and lower limb weakness, numbness, and tingling sensations over one month, secondary to severe folate deficiency and borderline vitamin B12 levels due to prolonged dietary restrictions for weight loss. Comprehensive investigations excluded other potential causes of neuropathy. Nerve conduction studies revealed motor axonal neuropathy, and electromyography confirmed axonal damage. Early recognition and correction of nutritional deficiencies are crucial in preventing irreversible neurological complications in such cases.

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