Skin Hyperpigmentation and Increased Angiogenesis Secondary to Vitamin B12 Deficiency in a Young Vegetarian Woman

The document described a case of a 21-year-old Greek vegetarian woman with skin hyperpigmentation and increased angiogenesis due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Her hyperpigmentation, which had been present since childhood, was localized to her legs and accompanied by finger deformities. Laboratory tests confirmed low serum B12 levels, and skin biopsies revealed increased melanocytes, melanin granules, and blood vessels. Treatment with intramuscular and oral B12, along with dietary changes, led to significant improvement in her symptoms. The study highlighted the reversible nature of skin hyperpigmentation and angiogenesis associated with vitamin B12 deficiency and called for further investigation into this relationship.