Folate Deficiency Causes

Which condition is NOT considered a cause of folate deficiency?

Which physical condition can lead to excess utilization of folate?

What type of dietary issue is likely to contribute to folate deficiency?

Which medication is associated with an increased risk of folate deficiency?

Excess urinary folate loss can be caused by which condition?

Causes of Folate Deficiency

Nutritional Deficiencies: Old age, institutions, poverty, famine, and special diets (like goat's milk) can lead to folate deficiency.
Malabsorption: Conditions like tropical sprue and gluten-induced enteropathy can cause folate malabsorption. Partial gastrectomy or extensive jejunal resection, especially in patients with Crohn's disease, can also contribute.
Excess Utilization:
Physiological: Pregnancy, lactation, and prematurity increase the body's need for folate.
Pathological: Haematological diseases (like haemolytic anaemia and myelofibrosis), malignant diseases (like carcinoma, lymphoma, and myeloma), and inflammatory diseases (Crohn's disease, tuberculosis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and exfoliative dermatitis) can increase folate use.
Excess Urinary Loss: Active liver disease and congestive heart failure can cause excessive urinary folate loss.
Drugs: Anticonvulsants and sulfasalazine can interfere with folate absorption.
Mixed Causes: Liver disease, alcoholism, and intensive care can contribute to folate deficiency, often in combination with other factors.

Explore the various causes of folate deficiency, including nutritional deficiencies, malabsorption issues, and increased physiological needs during pregnancy. Additionally, learn about how certain diseases and medications contribute to folate loss. This quiz covers essential aspects of folate metabolism and its implications for health.