Folate Deficiency Flashcards
1
Q
what are the most common causes of folate deficiency?
A
- inadequate intake (e.g. malnutrition, alcoholism)
- increased demand (e.g. pregnancy)
- impaired absorption (e.g. coeliac disease)
- increased excretion (e.g. dialysis)
2
Q
what are the symptoms of folate deficiency?
A
- glossitis
- diarrhoea
- depression
- confusion
- anaemia
3
Q
what are the investigations for folate deficiency?
A
- FBC (e.g. megaloblastic anaemia)
- vitamin B12
- folate ↓
- methylmalonic acid (MMA)
- homocysteine
4
Q
what is the management of folate deficiency?
A
supplemental oral folate (e.g. folic acid)
5
Q
why must vitamin B12 deficiency be ruled out before treating megaloblastic anemia with folate?
A
if vitamin B12 deficiency is present, folate supplementation can correct anaemia but does not reverse—and may even worsen—neurologic deficits
