Hypersegmentation of Megakaryocytes in a Folicacid Deficient Child

Abstract

A7-year-old girl with low serum folate levels and macrocytic anemia, in which the bone marrow picture was predominated by the presence of megakaryocytes with a marked nuclear hypersegmentation, was described. The child had homocyst.inuria of vitamin B₆ dependent type and had been under anticonvulsant therapy since her infancy. The nuclear shift of megakaryocytes was studied quantitatively and the results suggested that the hypersegmentation could be correctable by the administration of folic acid. A diagnostic significance of the nuclear hypersegmentation of megakaryocytes in folic acid deficiency was emphasized.