Relationships Between Vitamin B12, Folate Levels and Clinical Features in ADHD and ADHD-NOS

INTRODUCTION: In this study, we aimed to compare the levels of vitamin B12 and folate in children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder-Not Otherwise
METHODS: The study was planned as a cross-sectional, retrospective study. Patients were recruited between January 2012 and January 2013 and 205 cases’ records were evaluated. Both groups were compared according to vitamin B12 and folate levels. Symptom severity was evaluated by Turgay DSM-IV–Based Child and Adolescent Behavior Disorders Screening and Rating Scale. Anxiety symptom severity was assessed by The Screen for Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders.
RESULTS: The average age of the children in the Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder group was 10.88±3.02 (n=99) years, and the average age of the children in the and Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified group 9.93±2.49 (n=106) years. There was no statistically significant difference between two groups in terms of Vitamin B12 level and folate (p> 0.05). A statistically significant negative correlation between the total number of diagnoses of a child and vitamin B12 levels was found. Folate levels correlated significantly with anxiety total scores generalized anxiety subscale.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Vitamin B 12 levels may be affected in children with impairing Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder symptoms and increased comorbidities. The results of the study should be supported by future studies.