Includes
- Tocopherol, tocotrienol.
Function
- Antioxidant (protects RBCs and neuronal membranes from free radical damage).
Deficiency
- Hemolytic anemia, acanthocytosis, muscle weakness, demyelination of posterior columns (↓ proprioception and vibration sensation) and spinocerebellar tract (ataxia). Closely mimics Friedreich ataxia.
- Neurologic presentation may appear similar to vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, but without megaloblastic anemia, hypersegmented neutrophils, or increased serum methylmalonic acid levels.
Excess
- Risk of enterocolitis in infants (enfants) with excess of vitamin E.
- High-dose supplementation may alter metabolism of vitamin K → enhanced anticoagulant effects of warfarin.
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