What are Other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Anaemia of Folate Deficiency
• Folate Deficiency Anemia

What is Anemia of Folate Deficiency? (Definition/Background Information)

• Anemia of Folate Deficiency is a blood disorder caused by a lack of folic acid. Folic acid helps the body make red blood cells. If there is a lack of folic acid, the body is not able to properly carry oxygen to all parts of the body
• Anemia of Folate Deficiency can be caused by a lack of folic acid in the diet or by using certain medications. Pregnant women seem to be at a greater risk of developing the condition
• Pale skin, fatigue, diarrhea, and a decreased appetite are some signs and symptoms associated with Anemia of Folate Deficiency. The condition may be diagnosed using blood tests. In pregnant women, severe folate deficiency can cause neural tube defects
• The condition can be treated by improving one’s diet and through folic acid supplementation. If dietary factors cause Anemia of Folate Deficiency, it is usually preventable by consuming foods rich in folic acid

Who gets Anemia of Folate Deficiency? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Anemia of Folate Deficiency is known to affect individuals of all age groups and both male and female genders
• Worldwide, no racial or ethnic group predilection has been observed for the condition

What are the Risk Factors for Anemia of Folate Deficiency? (Predisposing Factors)

The following are some of the risk factors associated with Anemia of Folate Deficiency:

• Alcohol abuse
• Pregnancy: Pregnant women are more likely to develop Anemia of Folate Deficiency because of slow vitamin absorption
• Taking certain medications prescribed for controlling seizures
• Lack of a healthy diet
• Eating overcooked foods
• Weight loss diets
• A family history of folic acid absorption issues

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one's chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Anemia of Folate Deficiency? (Etiology)

Folic acid is essential to red blood cell production; a lack of this vitamin can inhibit oxygen circulation, leading to anemia. The following are possible causes of Anemia of Folate Deficiency:

• Some individuals are born with the inability to absorb folic acid properly, which can ultimately cause Anemia of Folate Deficiency
• Anemia of Folate Deficiency can also be caused by consuming a diet poor in “folic acid-rich foods”
• Chronic alcoholism can also inhibit the intestines from being able to absorb nutrients such as folic acid properly

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Anemia of Folate Deficiency?

The following are some reported signs and symptoms of Anemia of Folate Deficiency:

• Pale skin
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Increased heartbeat
• Weight loss
• Ringing in the ears
• Muscle weakness
• Pins and needles feeling in the hands and feet
• Reduced sense of taste
• Tender tongue

How is Anemia of Folate Deficiency Diagnosed?

The following can be used to help diagnose Anemia of Folate Deficiency:

• Diagnosis of Anemia of Folate Deficiency typically involves taking a medical history and a physical examination
• Blood tests: A complete blood count (CBC) test may show a decrease in the number of RBCs, WBCs, and platelets
• Other investigations may be necessary depending on the underlying cause

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the Possible Complications of Anemia of Folate Deficiency?

The following are possible complications associated with Anemia of Folate Deficiency:

• Neural tube or spinal defects in children of pregnant women with Anemia of Folate Deficiency
• Curly graying hair
• Increased skin pigmentation
• Infertility
• Worsening of heart conditions
• Paralysis of legs

How is Anemia of Folate Deficiency Treated?

The treatment of Anemia of Folate Deficiency depends on many factors, including the stage of pregnancy (for pregnant women), age, and severity of the condition.

The following are the commonly used treatment measures:

• Vitamin and mineral supplements
• Bringing about specific dietary changes (such as eating more green leafy vegetables and citrus fruits)
• Folic acid supplements (orally prescribed or via injections)

How can Anemia of Folate Deficiency be Prevented?

Generally, depending on the cause of Anemia of Folate Deficiency, the condition is preventable.

• If it is caused by a poor diet or alcoholism, drinking in moderation and eating nutrient-rich foods can help prevent the condition
• Make sure to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle

What is the Prognosis of Anemia of Folate Deficiency? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Anemia of Folate Deficiency usually responds favorably to treatment within 3-6 months
• The condition typically gets better when the underlying condition is addressed/treated

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Anemia of Folate Deficiency:

The functions of the three primary blood cells produced in the bone marrow include:

• RBCs or erythrocytes: They carry and deliver oxygen from the lungs to the tissues so that they can carry out cellular respiration
• WBCs or leukocytes: These cells fight against infection and also play a role in inflammation
• Platelets: These cells help in clot formation whenever there is a bleeding