Megaloblastic anaemia in a 9-weeks old infant: A case report
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Published on: August 23, 2022
Tehreem Afzal1, Naveed Ashraf1, Shahzad Munir1
1Department of Paediatrics, Federal Government Polyclinic (PGMI), Islamabad, Pakistan.
Insights
Megaloblastic anemia is rare in infants under 3 months. This case highlights the importance of investigating vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency in infants presenting with pancytopenia, even at 9 weeks old.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Hematology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Megaloblastic anemia due to vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency is uncommon in infants.
- Cases reported in infants under 3 months are rare.
Abstract:
Megaloblastic anaemia due to vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency is uncommon in infancy and rarely reported in infants below 3 months of age. We hereby report a case of megaloblastic anaemia in a 9-weeks old infant having fever from 7th week of life. Blood picture showed pancytopenia and diagnosis was confirmed on bone marrow biopsy and serum level of vitamins. Patient positively responded to vitamin B12 and folic acid supplementation. Infants with pancytopenia even younger than 2 months, should also be investigated for vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. Mother of the baby was not antenatally investigated for anaemia. Prompt antenatal diagnosis and treatment of mothers can reduce the incidence in the infants.
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