Kosmix: Megaloblastic Anemia Overview

Summary
Definition
Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Other Names
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Possible Complications
Outlook (Prognosis)
Prevention
Exams and Tests

Reviewed By William Matsui, MD

Definition

Megaloblastic anemia is a blood disorder characterized by anemia , with red blood cells that are larger than normal. This condition usually results from a deficiency of folic acid or of vitamin B-12 .

Symptoms

Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Tingling and numbness of hands and feet
Pale skin color
Tiredness
Headaches
Sore mouth and tongue
Change in skin color

Keep reading...

Definition

Symptoms

Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Tingling and numbness of hands and feet
Pale skin color
Tiredness
Headaches
Sore mouth and tongue
Change in skin color

Keep reading...

Causes

Deficiencies of vitamin B-12 and folic acid are the most common causes of megaloblastic anemia. Other causes are leukemia, myelofibrosis , multiple myeloma , certain hereditary disorders, drugs that affect DNA synthesis such as chemotherapy drugs, alcohol abuse, and other causes. Risk factors relate to the causes. (See also pernicious anemia ).

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to find out the cause of the anemia, and the treatment depends on the cause. Anemias related to vitamin deficiencies are discussed separately.

Other Names

Anemia - megaloblastic

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms develop.

Possible Complications

Complications vary with the cause of the anemia.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome is expected to be good with treatment.

Prevention

Adequate intake of vitamin B-12 and folic acid is helpful.

Exams and Tests

Examination of the working of the nervous system may show abnormal reflexes, decreased position sense, and decreased vibration sense if the anemia is related to vitamin B-12 deficiency.

Tests include:

Complete blood count (shows anemia with large red blood cells)
Bone marrow examination
Serum B-12
Schilling test (may identify poor absorption as cause of vitamin B-12 deficiency)
Serum folate

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Megaloblastic Anemia Overview

Definition

Symptoms

Definition

Symptoms

Causes

Treatment

Other Names

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Possible Complications

Outlook (Prognosis)

Prevention

Exams and Tests

Explore

Related in the Kosmos

Health (22)

Transmembrane protein

Hematology (17)

Biology

Folates

Nitrogen heterocycles

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