Megaloblastic anemia
Megaloblastic anemia is a blood disorder in which there is anemia with larger-than-normal red blood cells.
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues.
Causes
Megaloblastic anemia is usually caused by a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12.
Other less common causes are:
- Alcohol abuse
- Certain inherited disorders
- Drugs that affect DNA, such as chemotherapy drugs
- Leukemia
- Myelodysplastic syndrome
- Myelofibrosis
- The anticonvulsant drug dilantin
Risk factors relate to the causes.
See also:
Symptoms
See:
Exams and Tests
For testing information, see:
Treatment
The first goal is to diagnose the cause of the anemia. The treatment depends on the cause. Anemias related to specific vitamin deficiencies are discussed separately.
See:
Alternative Names
Anemia - megaloblastic
References
Antony AC. Megoblastic anemias. In: Hoffman R, Benz EJ, Shattil SS, et al., eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone; 2008:chap 39.
Kaferie J, Strzoda CE. Evaluation of macrocytosis. Am Fam Physician. 2009;79:203-208.
Update Date: 5/9/2012
Reviewed by: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, and David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital (1/31/2010).
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