Question

discuss the association of megaloblastic anaemia caused by folic acid deficiency and that caused by vitamin B₁₂ deficiency

Answer 1

Mrgaloblastic anaemia is a general term used to describe a group of anaemias caused by impaired DNA synthesis. It is characterized by abnormal findings in the peripheral blood smear and bone marrow samples.

Megaloblastic anaemia is caused when red blood cells are not produced properly. Because the cells are very large, they may not be able to exit the bone marrow to enter the bloodstream and deliver oxygen. Folic acid and cobalamin are B-group vitamins that play an important role in many cellular processes. Deficiency in one or both of these vitamins causes megaloblastic anaemia. The disease is characterised by the presence of megaloblasts. It occurs when inhibition of DNA synthesis causes asynchronous maturation between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Clinical manifestations are similar to that of other types of anaemia, with the exception of cobalamin deficiency megaloblastic anaemia, which presents distinctive neurological symptoms.

Folic acid deficiency is usually due to low folate content in the diet or an imbalance between folate demand and intake.

Cobalamin deficiency is usually caused by poor absorption of this vitamin in the digestive tract.

Further, all types of megaloblastic anaemia, whether it is caused by folic acid or cobalamin deficiency, present the following laboratory findings:

Flow cytometry

Peripheral blood samples

Reticulocyte count

Biochemistry tests

Bone marrow aspiration

The clinical presentation supported by laboratory test findings suggests megaloblastic anaemia.