Correlation of peripheral white cell and bone marrow changes with folate levels in pregnancy and their clinical significance

J Clin Pathol. 1966 Jan;19(1):33-6. doi: 10.1136/jcp.19.1.33.

Abstract

Two hundred and thirty-eight ;megaloblastic' pregnancies are reviewed. Bone-marrow aspiration was performed in every case. Serum folate estimations were strongly suggestive of folic acid deficiency in only 34% of cases. If, however, the red cell folate was determined as well, there was an almost complete agreement with the changes in the erythroblasts. It is suggested that hyper-segmentation of the neutrophils in association with a diminished red cell folate level is indicative of significant folic acid deficiency. This series possibly shows a slight but statistically insignificant increase of accidental haemorrhage. No effect on birth weight or incidence of stillbirth was demonstrable.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anemia, Macrocytic / etiology*
  • Blood
  • Bone Marrow Examination*
  • Female
  • Folic Acid Deficiency / complications*
  • Folic Acid*
  • Humans
  • Leukocyte Count*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Hematologic*

Substances

  • Folic Acid