Comments on Minivan MacGyver: breaking news: at least one of my girls is not [ne...

OMG, I know I'm not supposed to be laughing bu...

2012-01-25T12:52:19.826-05:00

OMG, I know I'm not supposed to be laughing but I am, about the pediatric alcoholism part.

Back to being serious, I know this is nerve wracking and that you're doing all you can to help her out. I'm sure you'll find out if there is a problem soon. Thinking of you.

I did read one thing about a genetic mutation in t...

2012-01-25T11:52:28.072-05:00

I did read one thing about a genetic mutation in the gene that produces the enzyme which converts the b12 into its usable form for the body. Your levels would show super high because the b12 is just sitting in your blood not being converted, but you would have all the signs of b12 deficiency.
We use a lot of supplements with Miles...

In other words, analyze those lab results yourself...

2012-01-24T22:47:50.096-05:00

In other words, analyze those lab results yourself - don't just accept the doctor's interpretation of them.

Also, as concerns the folic acid... (from wiki) &...

2012-01-24T22:46:55.607-05:00

Also, as concerns the folic acid...

(from wiki)
"Large amounts of folic acid can mask the damaging effects of vitamin B12 deficiency by correcting the megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency without correcting the neurological damage that also occurs", there are also indications that "high serum folate levels might not only mask vitamin B12 deficiency, but could also exacerbate the anemia and worsen the cognitive symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency".[

What is the lab calling a high level of B12? (fro...

2012-01-24T22:45:51.626-05:00

What is the lab calling a high level of B12?

(from wiki)
However, a recent research[citation needed] has found that B12 deficiency may occur at a much higher B12 concentration (500–600 pg/mL). On this basis Mitsuyama and Kogoh [31] proposed 550 pg/mL, and Tiggelen et al.[52] proposed 600 pg/mL. Against this background, there are reasons to believe that B12 deficiency is present in a far greater proportion of the population than 39% as reported by Tufts University.

There may not be a specific number for high or low...

2012-01-24T22:44:11.663-05:00

There may not be a specific number for high or low B12 - it can also depend on the levels of other stuff in the blood:

(from Wiki)
One possible explanation for normal B12 levels in B12 deficiency is antibody interference in people with high titres of intrinsic factor antibody.[29] Some researchers propose that the current standard norms of vitamin B12 levels are too low.[30] In Japan, the lowest acceptable level for vitamin B12 in blood has been raised from about 200 pg/ml (145 pM) to 550 pg/ml (400 pM).[31]

There is confusion in units of B12 deficiency when given by various labs in various countries. Where units are presented as pg/liter, or pg/L, they are likely in error.[citation needed] Where they are presented as pg/mL or pmol/L, they are likely correct. The ranges for these two units are similar, since the molecular weight of B12 is approximately 1000, the difference between mL and L. Thus: 550 pg/mL = 400 pmol/L.

Serum Homocysteine and Methylmalonic acid levels are considered more reliable indicators of B12 deficiency than the concentration of B12 in blood, see for example research at the St. Louis University.[32] The levels of these substances are high in B12 deficiency and can be helpful if the diagnosis is unclear. Approximately 10% of patients with vitamin B12 levels between 200–400pg/l will have a vitamin B12 deficiency on the basis of elevated levels of homocysteine and methylmalonic acid.[citation needed]

I am no help at all. But I'm hoping for good (...

2012-01-24T22:16:26.884-05:00

I am no help at all. But I'm hoping for good (i.e. easily fixable in pleasant ways like feeding her more ice cream) news. Keep us posted!