Megaloblastic anemia
Megaloblastic anemia is a blood disorder in which there is anemia with larger-than-normal red blood cells.
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues.
Causes of Megaloblastic anemia
Megaloblastic anemia is usually caused by a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12.
Other less common causes are:
- Alcohol abuse
- Certain inherited disorders
- Drugs that affect DNA, such as chemotherapy drugs
- Leukemia
- Myelodysplastic syndrome
- Myelofibrosis
- The anticonvulsant drug dilantin
Risk factors relate to the causes.
See also:
Megaloblastic anemia Symptoms
See:
Tests and Exams
For testing information, see:
Treatment of Megaloblastic anemia
The first goal is to diagnose the cause of the anemia. The treatment depends on the cause. Anemias related to specific vitamin deficiencies are discussed separately.
See:
References
Antony AC. Megoblastic anemias. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al., eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 39.
Kaferie J, Strzoda CE. Evaluation of macrocytosis. Am Fam Physician. 2009;79:203-208.
Related Images
Megaloblastic anemia - view of red blood cells
Hypersegmented PMN (Close-up)
Blood cells| Review Date: 5/9/2011 Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital (1/31/2010). |
