Which nutritional deficiency is most likely to cause burning mouth syndrome in a diabetic patient?

Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) can be influenced by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies. In diabetic patients, a deficiency in vitamin B12 is particularly notable because it plays a crucial role in nerve function and the health of the mucous membranes. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms and oral manifestations, including sensations of burning or pain in the mouth. This is due to its role in maintaining the myelin sheath around nerve fibers and the proper function of nerve cells.

Additionally, vitamin B12 is essential in the process of DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation. A deficiency can lead to anemia, which is often associated with symptoms such as glossitis (inflammation of the tongue) and changes in oral sensations, both of which can contribute to the sensations experienced in burning mouth syndrome.

In contrast, while deficiencies in vitamin A, iron, and calcium can lead to various health issues, they are less specifically linked to the development of burning mouth syndrome. Vitamin A is more associated with vision and immune function, iron deficiency primarily leads to anemia and fatigue without specifically causing oral pain, and calcium is primarily important for bone health and muscle function. Thus, vitamin B12 deficiency stands out as the most likely cause of burning mouth syndrome in a diabetic