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Megaloblastic Anemia
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Megaloblastic anemia is an anemia marked by large red blood cells with abnormal nuclear development. This pattern is typical when folate or vitamin B12 is deficient.
Picture a cell production line with a disruption in the program that copies DNA. Folate participates in DNA synthesis and in reactions needed for cell division. When one of those reactions is disrupted, the process leading to megaloblastic anemia can begin.
In brief
Megaloblastic anemia is characterized by large red blood cells with abnormal nuclear development. It is a typical finding in folate or vitamin B12 deficiency.
Folate participates in DNA synthesis and in reactions required for cell division. Disruption of one of those reactions can begin the process that leads to megaloblastic anemia.
Picture a cell production line in which a step required to copy DNA and divide cells breaks down.
Sources (1)
- Office of Dietary Supplements, NIHFolate: Health Professional Fact SheetPublished
This page explains the topic in general terms; it does not tell anyone what treatment to follow.
Updated