Makrocytóza

Makrocytóza refers to the presence of abnormally large red blood cells, also known as macrocytes, in the peripheral blood. This condition is typically diagnosed through a complete blood count (CBC) where the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), a measure of the average size of red blood cells, is elevated. Normal red blood cells are typically about 7-8 micrometers in diameter, but macrocytes can be significantly larger.

The formation of macrocytes usually indicates a problem with the maturation process of red blood cells within the bone marrow. This can occur due to deficiencies in essential nutrients required for DNA synthesis, such as vitamin B12 and folate. These deficiencies disrupt the normal cell division cycle, leading to cells that are larger but fewer in number. Conditions like pernicious anemia, which is an autoimmune disease affecting vitamin B12 absorption, are classic causes.

Other potential causes of makrocytóza include liver disease, where impaired liver function can affect lipid metabolism and red blood cell membrane composition, making them larger. Certain medications, alcohol abuse, and myelodysplastic syndromes, a group of disorders where the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells, can also lead to the presence of macrocytes. The underlying cause of makrocytóza needs to be identified and treated to address the anemia and other potential health consequences.