Megaloblastic Anemia
Definition
Heterogeneous group of disorders with common morphologic characteristics. The morphological hallmark of megaloblastosis is the megaloblast but megaloblastic changes are not limited to erythroid components. For example, hypersegmented neutrophils can be seen on peripheral blood smears and pancytopenia can occur.
Signs & Symptoms
Generalised tiredness, glossitis.
Risk Factors
Usually individuals older than 40 years; prevalence increases in older populations.
Causes
Vitamin B12 or Folate deficiency.
Pathophysiology
Impaired DNA synthesis due to lack of essential factors.
Peripheral blood characteristics
Macrocytic cells and hypersegmented neutrophils.
BM characteristics
Hyperplasia with erythroid dysplasia.
Important investigations & related results
Low serum cobalamin and red blood cell folate levels.
Treatment & management
Cobalamin and folate therapy.
Anisopoikilocytic macrocytic normochromic cells in the peripheral blood smear and hypersegmented neutrophils.
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