Question

what is a functional test for b9 deficiency?
a) methylmalonic acid
b) coombs test
c) hypersegmented neutrophils
d) schilling test
e) bone marrow biopsy

Explanation:

• Option a: Methylmalonic acid is a functional test for vitamin B12 deficiency, not B9 (folate).
• Option b: Coombs test is for detecting antibodies in hemolytic anemia, not B9 deficiency.
• Option c: Hypersegmented neutrophils (neutrophils with more than 5 lobes) are a common finding in folate (B9) deficiency, serving as a functional test for impaired DNA synthesis due to B9 lack.
• Option d: Schilling Test is for vitamin B12 absorption, not B9.
• Option e: Bone marrow biopsy is more invasive and used for detailed hematopoietic analysis, not a primary functional test for B9 deficiency.

Answer:

c) Hypersegmented neutrophils