All are true in megaloblastic anaemia except –
**Core Concept**
Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells that are unable to function properly. This condition is primarily caused by a deficiency in either vitamin B12 or folate, leading to impaired DNA synthesis and cell division.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the underlying pathophysiology of megaloblastic anemia. In this condition, the deficiency of vitamin B12 or folate impairs the synthesis of DNA, leading to the production of abnormally large red blood cells. The bone marrow is unable to produce normal-sized red blood cells due to the impaired DNA synthesis, resulting in the characteristic megaloblastic changes.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** (fill in the correct option)
Megaloblastic anemia is often associated with a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, not an excess of these nutrients.
**Option B:** (fill in the correct option)
The bone marrow in megaloblastic anemia shows characteristic megaloblastic changes, including large red blood cell precursors and a decrease in the number of normal-sized red blood cells.
**Option C:** (fill in the correct option)
Megaloblastic anemia can be caused by a deficiency in either vitamin B12 or folate, not by an excess of these nutrients.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Megaloblastic anemia is often associated with a characteristic "macrocytic" anemia, characterized by large red blood cells and a decreased mean corpuscular volume (MCV). This condition requires prompt treatment with vitamin B12 or folate supplementation to prevent complications.
**Correct Answer:**
(fill in the correct option)