What are the risk factors of megaloblastic anemia?

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

• Alcohol abuse.
• Certain inherited disorders.
• Drugs that affect DNA, such as chemotherapy drugs.
• Leukemia.
• Myelodysplastic syndrome.
• Myelofibrosis.
• The anticonvulsant drug dilantin.

What is the pathophysiology of megaloblastic anemia in cobalamin deficiency?

The pathophysiology of this group of anemia is ineffective erythropoiesis secondary to intramedullary apoptosis of hematopoietic cell precursors, which results from DNA synthesis abnormalities. Both vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies may cause defective DNA synthesis.

Is vitamin B12 anemia Hypochromic?

Deficient B12 anaemia is usually normochromic or with hypochromic RBCs if associated with iron deficiency.

What helps megaloblastic anemia?

Megaloblastic anemia caused by a lack of folate may be treated with oral or intravenous folic acid supplements. Dietary changes also help boost folate levels. More foods to incorporate into your diet include: leafy green vegetables.

What infection causes megaloblastic anemia?

The most common causes of megaloblastosis are vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies, medications, and direct interference of DNA synthesis by HIV infections and myelodysplastic disorders.

Is megaloblastic anemia curable?

Most cases of macrocytic anemia that are caused by vitamin B-12 and folate deficiencies can be treated and cured with diet and supplements. However, macrocytic anemias can cause long-term complications if left untreated. These complications can include permanent damage to your nervous system.

Why is vitamin B12 anemia called megaloblastic anemia?

Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body using a protein called hemoglobin. If there aren’t enough of these cells or this protein, anemia results. Usually, megaloblastic anemia is due to acquired deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid.

How is pernicious anemia similar to megaloblastic anemia?

Symptoms of the following disorders can be similar to those of megaloblastic anemia. Comparisons may be useful for a differential diagnosis. Pernicious anemia is a rare blood disorder characterized by the inability of the body to properly utilize vitamin B12, which is essential for the development of red blood cells.

How to treat megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B 12 deficiency?

Treatment to manage anemia is often ongoing. In the case of megaloblastic anemia caused by vitamin B-12 deficiency, you may need monthly injections of vitamin B-12. Oral supplements may also be given. Adding more foods with vitamin B-12 to your diet can help.

How are drugs induced to cause megaloblastic anemia?

Drug-Induced Megaloblastic Anemia. Charles S. Hesdorffer, M.D., and Dan L. Longo, M.D. Many common drugs induce megaloblastic anemia by interfering with folate or vitamin B 12 absorption, altering B 12 metabolism, or blocking pathways in which these vitamins play a role. Supplements to overcome these effects or discontinuation…

What foods should I eat if I have megaloblastic anemia?

Foods to include in your diet include: 1 oranges. 2 leafy green vegetables. 3 peanuts. 4 lentils. 5 enriched grains.