Which type of anemia is likely to be associated with a deficiency in folate (B9)?

Megaloblastic anemia is characterized by the presence of large, abnormal red blood cells in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. This type of anemia occurs primarily due to deficiencies in vitamin B12 or folate (vitamin B9), both of which are essential for proper DNA synthesis during red blood cell formation. When there is a deficiency in folate, DNA synthesis is impaired, leading to ineffective erythropoiesis and the development of megaloblasts—immature red blood cells that are unable to mature properly. As a result, the overall production of healthy red blood cells is compromised, leading to anemia.

In contrast, hemolytic anemia involves the destruction of red blood cells, normocytic anemia is characterized by normal-sized red blood cells typically associated with chronic diseases or acute conditions, and aplastic anemia involves the failure of bone marrow to produce adequate blood cells. None of these conditions are specifically linked to folate deficiency, making megaloblastic anemia the correct association with folate deficiency.