Folate and vitamin B12 status in schizophrenic patients

Ahmad Saedisomeolia, Mahmoud Djalali, Ali Malekshahi Moghadam, Ozra Ramezankhani, Laya Najmi

Abstract


  • BACKGROUND: This study aimed to determine red blood cell (RBC) and serum folate and vitamin B12 levels as well as their intake in schizophrenic patients.
  • METHODS: The folate and cobalamin status of 60 schizophrenic patients (15-55 years) was compared to 60 matched healthy controls using Radio Isotope Dilution Assay (RIDA).
  • RESULTS: Serum and RBC folate in schizophrenic patients was significantly lower than the control group. Mean serum cobalamin levels in the schizophrenic group were higher than controls.
  • CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that folate deficiency is common in schizophrenic patients; therefore, it is important to pay attention to folate levels in these patients.
  • KEYWORDS: Folic Acid, Vitamin B12, Schizophrenia, Eating.

Keywords


Folate, Vitamin B12, Schizophrenia, Radio Isotope Dilution Assay, Red blood cell, Serum, Intake, Iran

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