A client with suspected vitamin B12 deficiency anemia presents with symptoms of confusion, irritability, and depression.
The nurse observes these neuropsychiatric symptoms during the assessment.
Which of the following statements best describes the significance of these symptoms in relation to vitamin B12 deficiency anemia?

They are neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

Choice A rationale:

These neuropsychiatric symptoms are actually related to vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms, including confusion, irritability, and depression.

It is not unrelated to the condition.

Choice B rationale:

Gastrointestinal symptoms are not the primary manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

Choice C rationale:

Glossitis is a common sign of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, but it primarily involves inflammation and changes in the tongue.

While glossitis is associated with vitamin B12 deficiency, it does not fully explain the neuropsychiatric symptoms mentioned in the question.

Choice D rationale:

The correct answer is choice D.

Neuropsychiatric symptoms such as confusion, irritability, and depression are indeed associated with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

Choice A rationale:

Jaundice is not a typical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

It is more commonly associated with liver dysfunction or hemolytic anemias.

Choice B rationale:

This is a correct answer.

Glossitis, which is inflammation of the tongue, can be a clinical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

The tongue may appear red and swollen.

Choice C rationale:

This is a correct answer.

Peripheral neuropathy, characterized by tingling, numbness, and weakness in the extremities, can result from long-term vitamin B12 deficiency.

Choice D rationale:

Increased platelet count (thrombocytosis) is not a typical manifestation of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

It may occur in other conditions, such as inflammation or reactive thrombocytosis.

Choice E rationale:

This is a correct answer.

Oval-shaped red blood cells (macro-ovalocytes) can be observed in the blood smear of individuals with vitamin B12 deficiency anemia.

These abnormally shaped red blood cells are a characteristic finding.