MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -Deficiencies of vitamin B12 and folic acid are the leading causes of megaloblastic anemia. Folic acid is present in food such as green vegetables, fruits, meat, and liver. Daily adult needs range from 50 to 100 mcg. The recommended dietary allowance is 400 mcg in adults and 600 mcg in pregnant women.

Detailed explanation-2: -The most common causes of megaloblastic anemia are deficiency of either cobalamin (vitamin B12) or folate (vitamin B9). These two vitamins serve as building blocks and are essential for the production of healthy cells such as the precursors to red blood cells.

Detailed explanation-3: -Usually, megaloblastic anemia is due to acquired deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid. The deficiency can be related to inadequate dietary intake of these B vitamins or poor intestinal absorption.

Detailed explanation-4: -Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by very large red blood cells. In addition to the cells being large, the inner contents of each cell are not completely developed. This malformation causes the bone marrow to produce fewer cells, and sometimes the cells die earlier than the 120-day life expectancy.