Symptoms of a folic acid deficiency
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Symptoms of Folic Acid Deficiency
Macrocytic Anemia and Megaloblastic Erythropoiesis
One of the primary symptoms of folic acid deficiency is macrocytic anemia, which is characterized by the presence of abnormally large red blood cells. This condition is often associated with megaloblastic erythropoiesis, a process where the bone marrow produces large, immature red blood cells1 2 3. This type of anemia can lead to fatigue, weakness, and pallor due to the reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Glossitis, Weight Loss, and Diarrhea
Folic acid deficiency can also manifest through various gastrointestinal symptoms. Glossitis, an inflammation of the tongue, is a common sign, often accompanied by weight loss and diarrhea1 2 3. These symptoms are indicative of the body's impaired ability to absorb nutrients effectively, which can further exacerbate the deficiency.
Neurological and Psychiatric Symptoms
Although folic acid deficiency is primarily known for its hematological effects, it can also lead to significant neurological and psychiatric symptoms. These include cognitive impairment, depression, and dementia4 5 6. In some cases, patients may experience mild polyneuropathies, which are characterized by tingling and numbness in the extremities4 7. These symptoms can occur even in the absence of severe hematological changes and are often responsive to folate therapy4.
Increased Risk of Neural Tube Defects
In pregnant women, folic acid deficiency is particularly concerning due to its association with neural tube defects in the developing fetus. Inadequate folate levels during early pregnancy can lead to conditions such as spina bifida, where the spinal cord does not develop properly6 7. This highlights the importance of adequate folic acid intake during pregnancy to support fetal development.
Cardiovascular and Hematological Disorders
Folic acid deficiency can also influence cardiovascular health. It has been linked to elevated homocysteine levels, which are a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases9 10. Additionally, folate deficiency can lead to increased platelet aggregation and macrophage activity, which can potentiate the coagulation pathway and increase the risk of thrombotic events10.
Conclusion
Folic acid deficiency presents a wide array of symptoms, ranging from hematological issues like macrocytic anemia and megaloblastic erythropoiesis to gastrointestinal disturbances such as glossitis, weight loss, and diarrhea. Neurological and psychiatric symptoms, including cognitive impairment and depression, are also common. In pregnant women, the risk of neural tube defects underscores the critical need for adequate folate intake. Furthermore, cardiovascular and hematological disorders linked to elevated homocysteine levels and increased platelet activity highlight the systemic impact of this deficiency. Addressing folic acid deficiency through diet or supplementation is essential for preventing these diverse and potentially severe health issues.
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Folic acid deficiency
Folic acid deficiency can cause macrocytic anemia, glossitis, weight loss, diarrhoea, and neurological symptoms, and may result from poor intake, poor absorption, increased demand due to disordered metabolism, or a combination of these factors.
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Folic acid deficiency can cause macrocytic anamia, glossitis, weight loss, diarrhcra, and neurological symptoms without evidence of vitamin B12 deficiency.
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Folic acid deficiency can cause macrocytic anamia, glossitis, weight loss, diarrhoea, and neurological symptoms without evidence of vitamin B12 deficiency.
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