Macrocytic Anaemia

• What are the causes of macrocytic anaemia?


  Megaloblastic

  • vitamin B12 deficiency
  • folate deficiency

  Normoblastic

  • alcohol
  • liver disease
  • hypothyroidism
  • pregnancy
  • reticulocytosis
  • myelodysplasia
  • drugs (cytotoxics)
• What is macrocytic anaemia?


  Anemia characterised by larger than normal red blood cells.
• What are the 2 main types of macrocytic anaemia?


  Megaloblastic (most common)

  • caused by impaired DNA synthesis

  Non-megaloblastic

  • can be due to conditions affecting RBC production or increased destruction of erythrocytes
• What are the most common causes of macrocytic anaemia?


  Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency