The use of Neurobion Forte in the Treatment of Pellagra in an adult on anti-TB treatment: A case report from Lusaka, Zambia

Abstract

The deficiency of Niacin and/or its precursor amino acid, Tryptophan can result in a disease called Pellagra. Isoniazid (INH), a key drug used in tuberculosis (TB) treatment has been associated with pellagra particularly in developing nations where poor nutritional status is highly prevalent among its people.We report a case of pellagra with classical dermatological manifestations (hyperpigmented skin lesions around the neck), on the face, and external surfaces of the upper limbs) in a black African HIV negative adult female, on TB treatment for 11 weeks managed with a combo of Vitamin B1 - 10mg, Vitamin B2 - 10mg, Vitamin B3 - 45mg, Vitamin B5 - 50mg, Vitamin B6 - 3mg and ® Vitamin B12 - 15mcg (Neurobion Forte) with noticeable response to the treatment within one week.

Keywords: Pellagra, Isoniazid, Niacin, Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12,  Neurobion ^® Forte.