Folic-acid Deficiency and Megaloblastic Erythropoiesis in Myelofibrosis

Abstract

Three cases of myelofibrosis are described which demonstrate the importance of the recognition of folic-acid and iron deficiency in this condition. Folic-acid absorption was normal in these patients, and it is concluded that the folic-acid deficiency resulted from an increased utilization of the vitamin. One patient developed polycythaemia after treatment with folic acid and iron, and the relation between polycythaemia and myelofibrosis is briefly reviewed. © 1964, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.