Macrocytic Anaemia

[AllMouthButNoTrousers]

I had a blood test done recently to check my cholesterol but in the process of doing so, they have found that I am anaemic (low Hb and low RBC) but with the blood cells a large size. Thyroid was normal, inflammation was a tiny bit high, white blood cells low. Liver fine.

I do not have a folate or B12 deficiency (both normal on the face of it).

The doctor looked a bit flustered and I could tell wasn't sure what to do next. So has decided to give me a folate supplement plus ferrous sulphate for 2 months and then they will retest at that point and run some more blood markers.

Has anyone else had this? She did seem quite concerned. If the supplements don't fix it, it seems the likelihood is that it's something serious.

Around twenty years ago I was little bit anemic and gynaecologist put me on iron supplements. Psychiatrist commented that my red blood cells are fat that's why I was anemic. I took the supplements but no follow up. I don't know what it was but I wasn't unwell and I haven't heard anything about size of my red blood cells since. I have had loads of routine blood tests. I haven't been anemic either.

Thanks @novita

I have a suspicion I have been told this before too but I just can't recall and because I've moved area recently, no one has my historical tests.

I am also not unwell so it sounds v similar to your situation though I am definitely more tired (but put that down to life!)

anyone else had this?

What b12 test did they give you? The basic one is not reliable. What you need to ask for is an active b12 test. Check the NHS site on b12, it states so clearly.

Have you experienced any symptoms?

just says vitamin B12

I suppose I'm a bit tired but i didn't go with symptoms

Work paid for a health check (as I'm turning 50) so I went for it and they took a blood sample to mainly check cholesterol/thyroid/blood count so it's not on the NHS

Both vitb12 and serum folate say normal though on the low side of normal. BUT I do take a vitb12 under the tongue supplement as about 20 years ago I was told I needed it and I take spatone daily.

RBC is low, HB is low. MCV high, lymphocytes low, CRP high, transferrin saturation low.

I've been put on ferrous sulphate and folate for 2 months and then they want to retest but do a more thorough blood screen at that point they said

actually I would say I am showing signs of tiredness (keep falling asleep in meetings, more tired than normal) but not so tired that I would have complained to a doctor about it if that makes sense