Even slight deficiency of vitamin B-6 is connected to increase in homocysteine blood levels and depression. Increased levels of homocysteine can promote the risk of heart attack and stroke. For the elderly, deficiency of this vitamin may show up in reduced mental alertness and may trigger symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Acute Vitamin B-6 deficiency may manifest as nerve damage, depression, and scaliness around the mouth, nose, and eyes.
Seizures and severe anemia can be seen in advanced stages.