Vitamin B6 and vitamin D deficiency co-occurrence in geriatric memory patients.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin B6 and D levels are not assessed routinely in geriatric memory patients. This study examined vitamin levels to determine the potential effects on cognition.

METHODS: A chart review was conducted of 203 consecutive patients over a 12-month period. Levels of vitamins B1, B6, B12, and D were obtained on the day of clinic to identify deficiencies. A mental status exam (Mini Mental State Examination [MMSE]) was also performed.

RESULTS: One hundred sixty-seven patients had one or more vitamin levels obtained on the day of clinical evaluation. Vitamin B6 deficiency was the most common (37.5%), followed by vitamin D deficiency (36.8%). A chi-square test revealed significant co-occurrence of deficiency of vitamins B6 and D ( p  < 0.001). Vitamin B6 and D deficiencies were associated with lower MMSE scores ( p  < 0.05).

DISCUSSION: Vitamin B6 and D deficiencies are common in geriatric patients. The coexistence of these vitamin deficiencies has a significant association with cognitive performance, indicating the clinical importance of monitoring and supplementation.