Megaloblastic anemias: Disorders of impaired DNA synthesis

megaloblastic anemia is a form of macrocytic anemia in which nucleic acid metabolism is impaired, leading to reduced efficiency of cell division and nuclear-cytoplasmic dyssynchrony. Causes of megaloblastic anemia include deficiency of vitamin B12, folate, or copper, as well as a number of medications that interfere with purine or pyrimidine metabolism.

Lab tests:

CBC and Automated Differential

Blood Smear with Interpretation

Reticulocyte count

B12 vitamin

Iron and TIBC

Bone marrow examination

LDH

 References:

1. offbrand V, Provan D. ABC of clinical haematology. Macrocytic anaemias. BMJ 1997; 314:430.
2. Colon-Otero G, Menke D, Hook CC. A practical approach to the differential diagnosis and evaluation of the adult patient with macrocytic anemia. Med Clin North Am 1992; 76:581.