Megaloblastic Anemia Overview

What characterizes macrocytic anaemia?

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of macrocytic anaemia?

What is the minimal daily requirement of folic acid for individuals?

What is the minimum MCV value that indicates macrocytic anaemia?

Where is folic acid primarily stored in the body?

Which condition would NOT typically cause macrocytic anaemia?

What is the approximate amount of folic acid stored in the liver?

Which of the following is a common feature of megaloblastic anaemia?

How long can the body's store of folic acid last if the intake is inadequate?

Which of the following is a common dietary source of folic acid?

Overview of Macrocytic Anaemias

Macrocytic anaemia is characterized by abnormally large red blood cells (MCV > 95 fl).
More prevalent in individuals with blood group A.

Folic Acid

Main dietary source of folic acid: green vegetables.
Minimum daily requirement ranges from 100 to 150 µg.
Liver stores about 10-12 mg of folic acid, adequate for approximately four months.
Absorption occurs primarily in the duodenum and jejunum.
Folic acid converts to tetrahydrofolate, which is vital for DNA synthesis.

Causes of Folic Acid Deficiency

Nutritional deficiency and increased physiological demand.
Increased demand can occur during:
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
- Prematurity
Maternal folate or B12 deficiency can lead to neural tube defects, such as:
- Anencephaly
- Spina bifida
- Encephalocele

Hematological Findings

Peripheral blood examination reveals:
- Oval macrocytes.
- Hypersegmented neutrophils, typically with six or more nuclear lobes.
- Intrinsic factor antibodies may be present in pernicious anaemia.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment for folic acid deficiency includes oral folic acid supplementation.
Vitamin B12 deficiency treatment often involves hydroxycobalamin intramuscular injections.

Other Causes of Red Cell Macrocytosis

Macrocytosis can also be caused by:
- Liver disease
- Pregnancy
- Neonates (newborns)
- Hemolysis
- Myxedema (severe hypothyroidism)

This quiz covers the key features of megaloblastic anemia and other macrocytic anemias, focusing on their characteristics, specifically the abnormal size of red blood cells. Understand the significance of Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) in diagnosing this condition and explore the underlying causes and implications of these anemias.