Laboratory Investigations of Macrocytic Anemia
Classification and Causes of Macrocytic Anemia
Macrocytic anemia is characterized by large red blood cells and classified into megaloblastic and non-megaloblastic types. Laboratory investigations, including CBC, PBS, and vitamin B12 and folate levels, aid in diagnosis and management.
6/7/2025• 6 min read• 73 views
loved it
normalintermediatePathology
Laboratory Investigations of Macrocytic Anemia
Classification and Causes of Macrocytic Anemia
Macrocytic anemia is a blood disorder characterized by abnormally large red blood cells (RBCs). It can be classified into megaloblastic and non-megaloblastic anemia, with distinct etiologies and laboratory findings.
Megaloblastic Anemia
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Caused by pernicious anemia, malabsorption syndromes, or dietary deficiency.
- Folate Deficiency: Common in alcoholism, pregnancy, and malnutrition.
- Drug-Induced: Certain medications such as methotrexate and hydroxyurea.
Non-Megaloblastic Anemia
- Liver Disease: Causes abnormal lipid metabolism leading to large RBCs.
- Alcoholism: Leads to direct toxic effects on bone marrow.
- Hemolysis: Increased RBC turnover can result in macrocytosis.
Laboratory Investigations
Diagnosis of macrocytic anemia involves comprehensive blood tests, including:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)
- Peripheral Blood Smear (PBS) to assess RBC morphology
- Vitamin B12 and Folate levels
- Bone Marrow Examination in refractory cases
Management strategies depend on underlying causes, often requiring dietary adjustments, supplementation, or treating chronic diseases.
Tags
#Macrocytic Anemia#Pathology#Megaloblastic Anemia#Vitamin B12 Deficiency#Folate Deficiency
Recommended Reads
Explore related articles that might interest you
19
14%
Etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management of vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia
Read more →
19
46
14%
Etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and management of vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia
Read more →
46
37
13%
Classification and Pathophysiology of Anemia
Read more →
37
18
13%
Describe and discuss the morphological characteristics, etiology, and epidemiology of various types of anemia
Read more →
18
19
13%
Etiopathogenesis, clinical features, and management of Vitamin B12 and folate deficiency anemia
Read more →
19
43
13%
Etiopathogenesis, clinical features, and management of Vitamin B12 and Folate deficiency anemia
Read more →
43
31
12%
Laboratory Investigations of Macrocytic Anemia
Read more →
31