Aetiology
Folate deficiency anaemia is caused when the body does not have enough folate. Folate is a type of B-vitamin that is found in many foods, including leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified grains. Low folate intake can be caused by poor dietary habits and can be exacerbated by certain medications, alcohol abuse, and malabsorption syndromes.
Diagnosis
Folate deficiency anaemia can be diagnosed with a blood test that measures the amount of folate in the blood. Symptoms of folate deficiency anemia can include fatigue, headache, and pale skin.
Differential diagnosis
Other types of anemia, such as iron deficiency anemia and vitamin B12 deficiency anemia, can cause similar symptoms and must be ruled out.
Treatment
Folate deficiency anaemia is usually treated with folic acid supplements. Dietary modifications to include more folate-rich foods may also help.
Prognosis
With early diagnosis and treatment, folate deficiency anaemia is usually reversible. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as pernicious anemia, which is a more serious form of anemia.