Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Does The Blood Results Show?
If a patient (alcoholic) has hemoglobin of 8. MCV is normal, MCHC is slightly decreased. Reticulocyte is <2%. Serum ferritin,transferrin stat, total iron binding, folate and red cell folate are decrease. bone marrow shows megaloblastic changes. is this related to iron deficiency or folate deficiency? or would the diganosis just be megaloblastic anemia? thanks.
Thu, 4 Sep 2014
Hello and welcome to HCM,
The bone marrow shows features of megaloblastic anemia.
Megaloblastic anemia is caused by deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid in diet.
However, the serum iron is also low thus suggesting combined vitamin B12-folic acid and iron deficiency.
Thus, a combined vitamin B 12-folic acid and iron supplements are required for correction of the deficiency.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
The bone marrow shows features of megaloblastic anemia.
Megaloblastic anemia is caused by deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid in diet.
However, the serum iron is also low thus suggesting combined vitamin B12-folic acid and iron deficiency.
Thus, a combined vitamin B 12-folic acid and iron supplements are required for correction of the deficiency.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Transferrin
Loading Online Doctors....