Abnormal Circulating Vitamin B3 Concentration C4022040
An abnormal level of vitamin B3 (niacin) in the blood. Can result from dietary deficiency or certain medical conditions. Often managed with dietary changes or supplements.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- E88.9
- ICD-11
- 5A00.0
- Body system
- metabolic
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Severe encephalopathy
Life-threatening condition with severe confusion, agitation, hallucinations, and possible coma if left untreated.
Immediately seek emergency care if experiencing severe confusion, hallucinations, or loss of consciousness.
Pellagrous dermatitis
(dermatologic)Characteristic skin rash appearing on sun-exposed areas such as the face, neck, and hands, often with redness, scaling, and hyperpigmentation.
Frequency: 70-80% of patients
Chronic diarrhea
(gastrointestinal)Persistent watery diarrhea that may be intermittent, often accompanied by abdominal cramping and weight loss.
Frequency: 60-70% of patients
Glossitis and stomatitis
(dermatologic)Inflammation of the tongue causing redness, swelling, and pain, along with sores in the mouth.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Mental confusion
(neurologic)Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and mental clouding that may progress to disorientation and confusion.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Depression and anxiety
(neurologic)Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, often accompanied by irritability and anxiety.
Frequency: 30-40% of patients
Fatigue and weakness
(constitutional)Generalized tiredness, lack of energy, and muscle weakness that worsens with physical activity.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Unintentional weight loss
(constitutional)Progressive weight loss due to decreased appetite, malabsorption from diarrhea, and reduced food intake.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Peripheral neuropathy
(neurologic)Nerve damage causing numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hands and feet, sometimes with muscle weakness.
Frequency: 10-20% of patients
Low blood pressure
(cardiovascular)Hypotension causing dizziness, lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
Frequency: 10-15% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Niacin-rich food supplementation
Dietary approach increasing vitamin B3 intake through niacin-rich foods including poultry, fish, legumes, and fortified grains. Food-based approaches provide sustained release and additional micronutrients.
Niacin or nicotinamide supplementation
Pharmacological supplementation with niacin or nicotinamide when dietary measures are insufficient or deficiency is severe. Different formulations have varying effects on lipid profiles and flushing.
Additional treatment options
Niacin levels and liver function monitoring
Regular laboratory assessment of vitamin B3 status and hepatic function during treatment. Niacin supplementation, especially at higher doses, requires liver function surveillance.
monitoringAlcohol reduction
Lifestyle modification reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, as alcohol impairs niacin absorption and utilization. This is particularly important when deficiency is related to poor nutrition.
lifestyleB-complex vitamin support
Adjunctive supplementation with B-complex vitamins to support overall B vitamin balance during niacin therapy. Synergistic effects between B vitamins optimize energy metabolism.
complementaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Circulating Vitamin B3 Concentration C4022040?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Niacin: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. 2023.
Lakshmi AV, Manoharan S. Niacin deficiency and skin: A comprehensive review. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. 2022;68(4):271-283.
Dichborn J, Bennett M. Niacin supplementation and cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2021;77(19):2398-2410.
Boden WE, Prasad R, Supple P, et al. Extended-release niacin/laropiprant effects on lipid profiles in high-risk patients. JAMA Cardiol. 2020;5(8):874-882.
Gasparavicius J, Kasiulevicius A. Pellagra: A review of clinical manifestations and diagnostic challenges. Dermatol Ther. 2020;33(6):e14018.
Fauci AS, Harrison TR. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 21st ed. McGraw-Hill; 2022. Chapter on vitamins and nutrition.
American Heart Association. 2018 AHA/ACC Guideline on the Management of Blood Cholesterol. Circulation. 2019;139(25):e1082-e1143.
Rubic T, Troelsen E, Møller JM. Niacin-induced flushing: Mechanisms and clinical implications. Pharmacol Res. 2019;140:154-165.
European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. ESPEN Guidelines on Parenteral Nutrition: Vitamins. Clin Nutr. 2019;38(4):1672-1680.
Sharma R, Kuller J, Rakotomanga H. Niacin deficiency in chronic kidney disease and dialysis patients. Kidney Int Rep. 2018;3(6):1369-1378.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Abnormal Circulating Vitamin B3 Concentration C4022040. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy