NAPLEX (North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination) Practice Exam

Which is a common cause of macrocytic anemia?

1. Hemolysis

2. Vitamin B12 deficiency

3. Iron deficiency

4. Aplastic anemia

The correct answer is: Vitamin B12 deficiency

A Hemolysis is not a common cause of macrocytic anemia because it causes the red blood cells to break down prematurely, leading to a decrease in the number of red blood cells. This type of anemia is referred to as hemolytic anemia. C: Iron deficiency is not a common cause of macrocytic anemia because it causes a decrease in the production of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells. This type of anemia is referred to as microcytic anemia. D: Aplastic anemia is not a common cause of macrocytic anemia because it is a rare disorder characterized by the failure of the bone marrow to produce enough new blood cells. This leads to a decrease in both red blood cells and other blood cells, resulting in a condition known as pancytopenia. The most common cause of macrocytic anemia is a deficiency in vitamin B12. This can occur due to a lack of absorption of vitamin B12 in the digestive system, or a decrease in dietary intake of foods containing vitamin B12. Without enough vitamin B12, the body is unable to produce enough healthy red blood cells, resulting in macrocytic