Possible Etiologies, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, Treatment and Management of Folic Acid Deficiency

Folate is an essential water-soluble vitamin, naturally observed in food, particulary in fruits, green leafy vegetables and liver. The production of folic acid occurs as folate, which is found in supplements and fortified meals. Compared to naturally occurring folate, folate has a higher bioavailability. Folate has been included in grains in the United States, to inhibit congenital disabilities, particularly neural tube defects, as it plays an important role regarding the formation of several coenzymes in many metabolic systems and maintenance in erythropoiesis. Megaloblastic anemia is a subcategory of macrocytic anemia, related to macrocytosis (abnormally large red blood cells) particularly in the presence of anemia. Vitamin B12 and folate deficiencies most commonly cause megaloblastic anemia by damaging DNA synthesis and red blood cell (RBC) formation. Consequently, abnormally large RBCs termed as megaloblasts grow in the bone marrow. Macrocytosis impacts 2-4% of the general population, and 60% of people with macrocytosis have anemia. Because of wide variation in contributing factors across populations, data regarding the prevalence of megaloblastic anemia is mixed. For whatever reason, it is widely acknowledged that the second most common cause of megaloblastic anemia, after vitamin B12 insufficiency, is folate deficiency. In addition to reviewing the role of the interprofessional team in assessing, diagnosing, and treating the problem, this activity provides information on the origin, presentation, evaluation, and management of folate insufficiency. OBJECTIVES 1) Briefly narrate various possible etiologies resulting in folic acid deficiency. 2) Explain about the pathophysiology of folic acid deficiency. Summarize the treatment and management options for folic acid deficiency. 3) Describe how interprofessional team techniques can improve communication and coordination of treatment, leading to a faster identification of folic acid insufficiency and better outcomes for patients who are diagnosed with the illness.