Subacute combined degeneration

[exinilu]

Subacute combined degeneration is progressive degeneration of the spinal cord due to vitamin B12 deficiency.

Nerve fibers that control movement and sensation are damaged.
People have general weakness, tingling and numbness in the hands and feet, and stiff limbs and may become irritable, drowsy, and confused.
Blood tests can confirm vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12, if promptly given by injection or by mouth, usually results in complete recovery.

(See also Overview of Spinal Cord Disorders.)
Subacute combined degeneration usually affects people older than 40.
It is due to a deficiency of vitamin B12, which usually also causes pernicious anemia. Usually, the deficiency is not related to diet but to the body