What is a key characteristic of macrocytic anemia?

A key characteristic of macrocytic anemia is the presence of large red blood cells, which is indicative of the condition. Macrocytic anemia typically occurs due to deficiencies in key nutrients such as vitamin B12 or folate, which are essential for proper red blood cell formation. The lack of these nutrients impairs DNA synthesis, leading to the production of larger-than-normal red blood cells, or macrocytes.

These oversized red blood cells can be identified through a complete blood count (CBC) test, where the mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is elevated. The increase in volume results in abnormalities in the blood's oxygen-carrying capacity and can lead to symptoms such as fatigue and weakness.

In contrast, a healthy red blood cell is smaller and of standard size, so any indication of normal-sized or small red blood cells would not be characteristic of macrocytic anemia. Similarly, high ferritin levels are more associated with iron stores in the body, while an increased white blood cell count pertains to response mechanisms to infection or inflammation, rather than directly relating to the size of red blood cells in macrocytic anemia.