 |
Back to Health Library Print This Page  Email to a Friend  |
Megaloblastic anemia
Definition
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.
Alternative Names
Anemia - megaloblastic
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
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
Risk factors relate to the causes.
See also:
Symptoms
See:
Signs 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:
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.
Reviewed By: 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.
