N o n - M e g a l o b l a s t i c A n e m i a
As mentioned in the definition of megaloblastic anemia, there are two kinds of macrocytic anemia: megaloblastic and non-megaloblastic. Megaloblastic anemia is much more common than non-megaloblastic anemia.
Megaloblastic anemia is usually caused by decreased B /folate, leading to defective DNA synthesis. The blood smear shows oval macrocytes and hypersegmented neutrophils.
Non-megaloblastic anemia is usually caused by alcohol abuse. DNA synthesis is not defective, and there are no megaloblastic changes on the blood smear.
