Prevalence of Vitamin B12 Deficiency in Patients with Depressive Symptoms: Clinical and Biochemical Correlations

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in patients presenting with depressive symptoms and to explore its biochemical and clinical implications. Methods: Observational study assessing serum vitamin B12, folate, ferritin, thyroid function, and homocysteine in patients with depressive symptoms. Results: Vitamin B12 deficiency was identified in a significant proportion of patients, with associated elevations in homocysteine and frequent comorbid deficiencies in ferritin and thyroid dysfunction. Conclusion: Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common yet underrecognized contributor to depressive symptomatology, and routine screening should be integrated into psychiatric evaluations.