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[Megaloblastic anemia in the elderly]
R Schoueri Júnior1, E T de Carvalho Filho, J A Curiati
1Al. Fernão Cardim, São Paulo, SP.
Revista Paulista De Medicina
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Elderly patients with megaloblastic anemia, often caused by folic acid or vitamin B12 deficiency, showed significant improvement with prompt treatment. Early intervention is crucial to prevent severe complications and mortality in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Hematology
- Internal Medicine
Context:
- Megaloblastic anemia affects elderly patients, presenting with diverse and severe clinical conditions impacting multiple organ systems.
- Hematological findings include macrocytic anemia, hypersegmented neutrophils, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and hemolysis.
- Gastric pathology is frequently observed in patients undergoing endoscopic examination and biopsy.
Purpose:
- To review the clinical characteristics, hematological findings, and treatment outcomes of megaloblastic anemia in elderly patients.
- To compare the clinical presentation and response to therapy in patients with folic acid versus vitamin B12 deficiency.
Summary:
- A retrospective review of 20 elderly patients (mean age 70.4 years) with megaloblastic anemia revealed significant hematologic, cardiocirculatory, neurologic, and digestive system involvement.
- Clinical and hematological profiles were similar for both folic acid and vitamin B12 deficiencies.
- Ninety percent of patients responded promptly to therapy, although some neurological deficits may persist.
Impact:
- Prompt treatment of megaloblastic anemia in the elderly leads to rapid and clear clinical and hematological recovery.
- Untreated cases carry a high risk of severe morbidity and mortality from cardiac, infectious, or hemorrhagic complications.
- Highlights the importance of early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention for megaloblastic anemia in geriatric populations.
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