Share on Pinterest Macrocytic anemia is usually caused by a deficiency of folate or vitamin B-12, which is abundant in animal products. Macrocytic anemia is almost always due to a deficiency of folate or vitamin B-12.

What are the two most common causes of Macrocytic anemia?

Megaloblastic anemia has several different causes – deficiencies of either cobalamin (vitamin B12) or folate (vitamin B9) are the two most common causes.

What is a major cause of Macrocytosis?

Macrocytosis is usually caused by low vitamin B12 or folate levels, but there are other reasons it develops, including from liver disease, alcoholism, and from taking certain medications. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment may require taking in additional vitamin B12 and folate.