HTA Details
Testing Vitamin B12 Levels in Neuropathy, Alopecia, Dizziness, and Fatigue
- Publication date
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2014-February-01
- Status
- Final
- Topic Area
- Diabetes and Other Endocrinal, Nutritional and Metabolic
- Recommendation
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Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee Recommendations:
- The Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee recommends serum vitamin B12 testing be restricted to those with macrocytic anemia or malabsorption.
- The Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee recommends against serum vitamin B12 testing for the purpose of investigating dementia or cognitive impairment and for vague presentations such as alopecia, dizziness, and fatigue.
- Ministry Response
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The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care endorses this recommendation.
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To read the full OHTAC Recommendation Report for this topic, contact our Health Innovation team using the contact form to request a digital copy.
Low levels of vitamin B12 in the body can lead to problems with the nervous system and to low iron in the blood. Neuropathy (diseases of the nervous system), alopecia (hair loss), dizziness, and fatigue (feeling tired) may be signs of these conditions.
Ontario Health looked at whether people with neuropathy, alopecia, dizziness, and fatigue should be tested for low vitamin B12.
Supporting Documents
Last Updated: February 24, 2026
