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Severe Pancytopenia Secondary to Combined Vitamin B12 and Folate Deficiency Mimicking Bone Marrow Failure: A Case Report

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Vitamin B12 and folate are essential cofactors for DNA synthesis and red cell maturation. Severe combined deficiency is rare but can mimic bone marrow failure by causing profound pancytopenia and intramedullary haemolysis. This report describes the case of a 65-year-old woman who presented with profound pancytopenia and jaundice caused by severe combined vitamin B12 and folate deficiency. The identification of megaloblastic changes and prompt administration of vitamin replacement led to complete recovery. This case underscores the importance of considering nutritional deficiencies when diagnosing pancytopenia. The report highlights the continued prevalence of such deficiencies among older adults in the United Kingdom and the subsequent associated morbidity.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.98385

Authors: Ali Sheikh, Lally De Soysa, Fath Mohammed

Institution: Wrexham Maelor Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Folate and B Vitamins Research

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4416955912