International Journal of Medical Discoveries

Background: Vitamin B6 toxicity is an underrecognized cause of neuropathy, often overlooked in routine clinical practice. With the widespread availability of over-the-counter supplements, excessive intake has become increasingly common, potentially leading to sensory and motor complications.
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of toxic vitamin B6 levels and its clinical implications in patients presenting with neuropathic symptoms at Burjeel Hospital, Dubai.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective observational study on adult patients who had their serum vitamin B6 levels tested during neurology clinic visits. Patients with previously diagnosed causes for neuropathy (diabetic neuropathy, etc.) were excluded. Clinical data, including sensory, motor, and cognitive symptoms, were analyzed for associations with B6 levels. Statistical analyses were performed using R, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Among 68 patients, 30.9% showed toxic vitamin B6 levels (>37.7 µg/L). While no significant associations were found between B6 levels and demographic factors or most laboratory parameters, a significant positive correlation was noted between B6 and B12 levels (p = 0.023, r = 0.48). Sensory dysfunction was prevalent in 95.2% of patients presenting with toxic B6 levels. Additionally, motor symptoms were associated with elevated B6 levels (p = 0.025).
Conclusion: Vitamin B6 toxicity is a frequent but underdiagnosed contributor to neuropathy. Sensory dysfunction remains the hallmark of toxicity, whereas the association with motor symptoms suggests a broader neurological impact. Thus, increased clinical awareness and routine B6 screening in patients with unexplained neuropathy may improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.