Megaloblastic Anaemia Signs & Symptoms

What is one of the neurological symptoms associated with cobalamin deficiency?

Which of the following is a common sign of megaloblastic anaemia linked to cobalamin deficiency?

What causes peripheral neuropathy in cobalamin deficiency?

Which symptom is a result of lateral column involvement in cobalamin deficiency?

What does ineffective erythropoiesis contribute to in megaloblastic anaemia?

In cobalamin deficiency, which abnormality is observed in vibration sense?

Which of the following is NOT a sign or symptom of megaloblastic anaemia?

What is a potential consequence of untreated cobalamin deficiency over time?

Which of the following is a characteristic symptom of megaloblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency rather than cobalamin deficiency?

What role does abnormal DNA synthesis play in megaloblastic anaemia?

Megaloblastic Anaemia: Signs & Symptoms

Megaloblastic anaemia is associated with ineffective erythropoiesis, abnormal DNA synthesis and cell cycling, and deranged myelin synthesis.
Common symptoms include lethargy, weakness, yellow or waxy pallor, glossitis (beefy red tongue or smooth pale tongue), loss of appetite, and weight loss.
Neurological symptoms, specifically associated with cobalamin deficiency, include peripheral neuropathy and cognitive impairment/decline.
Cobalamin deficiency can manifest as symmetrical distal sensory symptoms, starting in the feet and progressing to the hands.
Other cobalamin deficiency symptoms include diminished vibration sense, impaired proprioception (in the legs), impaired distal cutaneous sensation, and altered/absent limb reflexes.
Lateral column involvement in cobalamin deficiency can lead to spastic paraparesis and autonomic issues like bladder, bowel, or sexual dysfunction.
Subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord is a serious neurologic consequence of cobalamin deficiency, involving the spinal cord white matter and causing degeneration of conscious and unconscious proprioception, and further affecting control of skilled movement.
Early stages of megaloblastic anaemia are often treatable but progressive neurodegeneration can be problematic and irreversible if not properly diagnosed and managed promptly.

Explore the signs and symptoms of megaloblastic anaemia, including the impact of cobalamin deficiency on erythropoiesis and neurological function. This quiz covers clinical manifestations such as fatigue, pallor, glossitis, and neurological symptoms. Test your understanding of how megaloblastic anaemia affects overall health.