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Megaloblastic anemia

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Megaloblastic anemia - view of red blood cells
Megaloblastic anemia - view of red blood cells
Hypersegmented PMN (Close-up)
Hypersegmented PMN (Close-up)
Blood cells
Blood cells

Alternative Names    Return to top

Anemia - megaloblastic

Definition    Return to top

Megaloblastic anemia is a blood disorder in which there is anemia with larger-than-normal red blood cells.

Causes    Return to top

Megaloblastic anemia is usually caused by a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12. Other causes are:

Risk factors relate to the causes.

See also: Pernicious anemia

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Examination of the nervous system may show:

Treatment    Return to top

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.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The outcome depends on the cause of the anemia.

Possible Complications    Return to top

Complications vary with the cause of the anemia.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of this condition.

Prevention    Return to top

Getting enough vitamin B12 and folic acid is helpful.

References    Return to top

Antony AC. Megoblastic anemias. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 170.

Update Date: 11/23/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Yi-Bin Chen, MD, Leukemia/Bone Marrow Transplant Program, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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