Anemias carenciales y anemia megaloblástica

Abstract

Deficiency anemia, defined as a deficiency of essential factors for red blood cell formation and maturation, is a global health problem. The main cause is iron deficiency, followed by megaloblastic anemia, which is mainly due to a deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B12, both essential coenzymes for DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12 requires complex absorption in the gastrointestinal system that involves different phases, as does folic acid, whose main absorption occurs in the duodenum and jejunum. The clinical manifestations of megaloblastic anemia include the typical symptoms of anemia, which is common regardless of the cause, and neurological symptoms that are specific to vitamin B12, or cobalamin, deficiency. The diagnosis is made via blood tests which reveal macrocytic anemia with low reticulocytes. The definitive diagnosis is made when decreased levels of vitamin B12 or folic acid, respectively, are observed. Treatment involves replenishment of the deficient nutrients either orally or parenterally, depending on severity and etiology. Approved formulations available in Spain are included in the text.