Macrocytosis (Symptoms,Causes and Treatment)
A medical disease known as macrocytosis is defined by the bloodstream’s accumulation of abnormally big red blood cells (RBCs). It is a sign of an underlying ailment rather than a disease in and of itself. When a complete blood count (CBC) is carried out as a standard element of a medical examination, macrocytosis is frequently found.
This article covers the following topics :
Describe macrocytosis.
Red blood cells (RBCs) with macrocytosis have a bigger size than usual. It is a finding rather than a sickness that can be brought on by a number of different underlying diseases. RBCs typically have a diameter of 7-8 micrometers, however during macrocytosis, they are greater than 8.5 micrometers. An examination of the complete blood count (CBC) can identify macrocytosis.
Both megaloblastic and nonmegaloblastic macrocytosis are common. Impaired DNA synthesis impairs erythropoiesis (the generation of red blood cells), which results in megaloblastic macrocytosis and larger, immature RBCs. Deficits in vitamin B12 or folate, which are crucial cofactors in DNA synthesis, are the most frequent causes. On the other side, nonmegaloblastic macrocytosis is brought on by increased lipid deposition in RBCs, which causes them to enlarge and grow bigger than usual. Alcoholism, liver disease, hypothyroidism, some drugs, and other diseases can result in nonmegaloblastic macrocytosis.
The underlying cause of macrocytosis affects the symptoms. In certain instances, macrocytosis may not show any symptoms at all, but in other instances, it may result in weakness, exhaustion, shortness of breath, and pale complexion.
A CBC test is used to determine the size and quantity of RBCs in the blood and is used to diagnose macrocytosis. To identify the underlying reason, more tests may be performed if macrocytosis is found.
The underlying cause of macrocytosis determines the course of treatment. Treatment options for megaloblastic macrocytosis brought on by vitamin B12 or folate deficiencies may include vitamin supplements. Treatment of the underlying problem, such as quitting drinking or managing liver disease, may help control nonmegaloblastic macrocytosis.
If macrocytosis is found, it is crucial to consult a doctor right once since it may be an indication of a more serious condition that has to be treated. The individual and a healthcare professional can work together to identify the problem’s origin and the best course of action.
The frequency of macrocytosis?
The disease known as macrocytosis causes red blood cells that are bigger than usual. Numerous things, such as vitamin deficiency, liver illness, drunkenness, and specific drugs, might contribute to it. Depending on the underlying reason and the demographic being researched, macrocytosis prevalence varies.
In general, elderly adults—especially those above the age of 80—have a higher incidence of macrocytosis. According to one study, only 2% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 had macrocytosis, compared to 11% of adults over the age of 65. Men experience macrocytosis more frequently than women. However, depending on the underlying reason, macrocytosis prevalence can vary significantly. For instance, macrocytosis brought on by a lack of vitamin B12 is more prevalent in older persons and vegetarians, while macrocytosis brought on by drunkenness is more prevalent in men.
What signs or symptoms indicate macrocytosis?
Typically, macrocytosis does not manifest any symptoms by itself. It might, however, be a symptom of a deeper issue that manifests as symptoms. For instance, if anemia is the underlying cause of macrocytosis, anemia’s symptoms, such as weakness, exhaustion, pale complexion, and shortness of breath, may also be present. Jaundice, nausea, and stomach pain may be present if liver disease is the reason. Occasionally, macrocytosis without any symptoms may be discovered by chance during a normal blood test.
What brings about macrocytosis?
The reasons of macrocytosis might vary, and it is frequently a symptom rather than an illness in and of itself. These are a few typical causes of macrocytosis:
1-Vitamin B12 insufficiency: Macrocytic anemia and macrocytosis can result from a vitamin B12 deficit in the body.
2-A folate shortage can result in macrocytic anemia and macrocytosis, much like a vitamin B12 deficiency can.
3-Alcoholism: Due to alcohol’s impact on the bone marrow, which can result in the creation of bigger red blood cells, alcoholism can result in macrocytosis.
4-Liver disease: Cirrhosis, one type of liver illness, can result in macrocytosis.
5-Hypothyroidism: Macrocytosis can also be brought on by an underactive thyroid gland.
6-Specific substances: A number of pharmaceuticals, including anti-seizure treatments and chemotherapeutic agents, can result in macrocytosis.
Rare genetic diseases can lead to macrocytosis, including hereditary macrocytosis and megaloblastic anemia.
It’s vital to keep in mind that macrocytosis may occasionally occur as a normal variety and not be connected to any underlying medical problem.
How is macrocytosis determined to exist?
A complete blood count (CBC), a common blood test, is typically used to identify macrocytosis. Red blood cell (RBC) size is one of many blood constituents that the CBC measures. When the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), a measure of the average size of RBCs, exceeds the usual range (80–100 femtoliters), macrocytosis is diagnosed. It may be necessary to order additional blood tests to assist identify the underlying cause of the macrocytosis.
In order to seek for the telltale signs and symptoms of macrocytosis and any underlying diseases that might be the cause of it, a physical examination and medical history review may also be carried out. To find any structural irregularities or damage to organs like the liver or spleen, imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs may also be used.
What diagnostic procedures will be used to identify the cause of macrocytosis?
A complete blood count (CBC) test may reveal macrocytosis, in which case other tests may be carried out to identify the underlying reason. These tests could consist of:
1-Folate and vitamin B12 levels: Testing for vitamin B12 and folate deficiency is typically the first step because these deficiencies are frequent causes of macrocytosis.
2-Peripheral blood smear: In this test, a sample of blood is examined under a microscope to assess the size, shape, and appearance of the red blood cells. Red blood cells with irregular shapes, such as ovalocytosis or elliptocytosis, may be the cause of macrocytosis.
3-Liver function testing: Because macrocytosis may be a symptom of liver illness, it may be necessary to conduct these tests to look for any anomalies.
4-Thyroid function testing: Since macrocytosis can occasionally result from hypothyroidism, thyroid function tests may be prescribed.
5-Bone marrow biopsy: In some circumstances, it may be necessary to do a bone marrow biopsy in order to analyze the bone marrow cells and look for any anomalies that could be the source of macrocytosis.
Depending on the probable underlying cause of the macrocytosis, certain tests may be ordered.
What is the remedy for macrocytosis?
The underlying cause of macrocytosis determines the course of treatment. Sometimes there is no need for therapy because the illness will go away on its own. In other situations, fixing the underlying issue can help the macrocytosis get better. For instance, supplementing with vitamin B12 can help the illness improve if vitamin B12 deficiency is the underlying cause.
If alcohol abuse is the root of the problem, cutting back or quitting alcohol use may be beneficial. Treatment of liver disease can enhance macrocytosis in those who have it. In rare instances, more harsh treatment, such as chemotherapy, may be required when macrocytosis is brought on by a bone marrow problem.
In light of the fact that macrocytosis is a symptom and not a disease, it is crucial to find and address the root cause. Based on the underlying cause of your macrocytosis, your doctor will decide the best course of action.
Can macrocytosis be cured?
Macrocytosis is a test finding that denotes the presence of larger-than-normal red blood cells rather than a disease. The underlying cause of macrocytosis determines how it should be treated. In certain circumstances, no therapy is required because it can be a typical difference in some people. However, if a medical issue, such as a vitamin B12 deficiency or alcoholism, is the underlying cause of macrocytosis, addressing the underlying illness may assist to alleviate the macrocytosis. In some circumstances, further care may be required, such as vitamin B12 or folic acid supplements. Some of the underlying diseases that cause macrocytosis may need continuous management or treatment, even if the macrocytosis itself can frequently be reversed with the right treatment.
How can I lower the chance of developing macrocytosis?
More often than not, macrocytosis is a symptom of a deeper issue rather than a disease in and of itself. Therefore, treating the underlying illness that is generating macrocytosis may be necessary to prevent it.
Among the measures to lower the risk of macrocytosis are:
1-Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is high in vitamins and minerals, particularly folate and vitamin B12.
2.-Limiting alcohol consumption or abstaining entirely.
3-Stop smoking if you already do.
4-Managing any underlying medical disorders, such as liver disease, hypothyroidism, or cancer, that may contribute to macrocytoses.
5-Taking vitamins or medicines as directed by your doctor to treat any nutrient deficits or health issues.
6-Continually checking your blood count and other lab results as directed by your doctor.
What results from a lack of treatment for macrocytosis?
Most of the time, macrocytosis has no symptoms or side effects and may not even need therapy. However, untreated macrocytosis can result in major health complications like anemia, neurological disorders, and a higher chance of developing certain cancers if the underlying cause is not treated.
Treating the underlying health issue, if macrocytosis is brought on by it, may assist to avoid subsequent difficulties. If you are having any symptoms or have any worries about your health, it is crucial to see a doctor.
What inquiries should I make of my doctor regarding the disease macrocytosis?
Here are some queries you might wish to bring up with your doctor if you have macrocytosis or have been told you do.
1-How did you identify the underlying cause of my macrocytosis and what is causing it?
2-Which of the therapeutic choices that are available to me do you advise?
3-Can you suggest a nutritionist or dietitian for me, and what lifestyle adjustments can I make to better my condition?
4-How frequently should I have follow-up exams or appointments in order to monitor my condition?
5-Are there any drugs or supplements I should stay away from while I have macrocytosis?
6-Is it possible for my macrocytosis to worsen and what symptoms should I be on the lookout for?
7-Are there any potential long-term side effects of macrocytosis, and how may I lower my likelihood of experiencing them?
8-Can you recommend any support organizations or other resources for those who have macrocytosis?
9-Should my family members undergo testing for macrocytosis or disorders that are related?
10-How will my macrocytosis be affected by any additional medical issues I have, and how can we manage them together?