Macrocytops is a term that can appear in the blood count ratio, indicating that red blood cells may be larger and that visualization of macrocytic red blood cells may also be indicated on the test. Macrocytosis is evaluated using the average corpuscular volume (CMV), which determines the average size of erythrocytes, although the reference value between 80. 0 and 100. 0 fL, however, this value may vary by laboratory.
Therefore, macrocytopes are considered when the CMV is greater than 100. 0 fL. For macrocytops to be clinically relevant, it is important that CMV is evaluated with other signals in the blood formula, such as red blood cell count; hemoglobin; RDW, which shows variation in the size of erythrocytes; mean corpuscular hemoglobin (HCM) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (CHCM) concentration.
- Increasing the size of red blood cells is the most common occurrence in larger people.
- As it is common for there to be a reduction in the amount of oxygen available.
- Depending on the need to increase the capture of this gas to transport it to the body.
- Resulting in an increase in the size of erythrocytes.
However, macrocytopesis can occur at any age and is primarily related to nutritional changes, however, other health conditions, such as alcoholism or bone marrow changes, may also result.
In this way, the main causes of macrocyssis are
The degradation of vitamin B12 in the body is one of the main causes of macrocyssis, which could occur by the change in the process of absorption of this vitamin in the gut or by the degradation of vitamin B12 consumed throughout the day.
Apart from macrocytosis, it is common for a person with this vitamin deficiency to have a type of anemia called pernicious anemia; for this reason, it is common to develop certain symptoms such as weakness, fatigue and shortness of air. We know how to identify symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency.
The important thing: in addition to the blood formula certain vitamin B12 values are determined, so it is possible to confirm the diagnosis and initiate the most appropriate treatment, which may include changes in diet or use of supplements, I agree with medical instructions. nutritionist.
Folic acid deficiency, also known as vitamin B9, is one of the main causes of macrocyssis and can occur from certain causes, such as reduced intake of this vitamin, inflammatory bowel diseases and increased demand for this vitamin, as in pregnancy, for example.
In addition to macrocytosis, in this case, in the blood picture, it is also possible to observe the presence of changes in red blood cells, hypersegmented neutrophils and variations in the form of erythrocytes, called poiquilocytosis. Learn what poiquilocytosis is.
What to do: After identifying the cause of folic acid deficiency is indicated for the most appropriate treatment, you may recommend an increase in the intake of this vitamin or the use of supplements, in case a folic acid deficiency is related to intestinal alterations, your doctor may recommend treatment of the patient, as this may also regulate folic acid levels in the body.
Frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages could lead to a gradual increase in folic acid levels, which could promote the development of larger red blood cells, as well as induce other biochemical changes.
What to do: If it is recommended to reduce the consumption of alcoholic beverages, it is possible to promote the proper functioning of the body, in some cases, chronic consumption of alcoholic beverages can cause alterations mainly in the liver, it is recommended that you change your eating and life habits and perform treatment as directed by medical conditions.
The bone marrow is responsible for the production of blood cells, which could generate large red blood cells due to changes in their functioning, as a result of leukemia or being alone in the body against anemia, for example.
What to do: In this case, if some other changes are made to your blood test, your doctor may recommend a myelogram or bone marrow biopsy to identify the cause of your changes and the most appropriate treatment.