Nuclear cytoplasmic asynchrony refers to a condition where the nucleus and
cytoplasm of a cell do not develop at the same rate. This can occur in various
forms of anemia and other pathological conditions. Here's a detailed explanation
of the concept and its relevance to the options provided:
1. Megaloblastic Anemia: Megaloblastic anemia is a type of anemia characterized
by the presence of large, immature, nucleated red blood cells (megaloblasts) in
the bone marrow and peripheral blood. This condition is primarily caused by a
deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid, which are essential for DNA synthesis
during cell division. The nucleus of the cells divides more slowly than the
cytoplasm, leading to an asynchronous development and the formation of large,
abnormal cells. In megaloblastic anemia, the nucleus is often large and
hyperchromatic (darkly stained), while the cytoplasm is relatively less
developed and pale. Therefore, this option is the most appropriate answer.
2. Fe Deficiency Anemia: Iron deficiency anemia is the most common type of
anemia worldwide, resulting from a lack of iron in the body. Iron is a critical
component of hemoglobin, which is responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood
cells. In this condition, the body produces smaller than normal red blood cells
(microcytic) that lack hemoglobin, leading to decreased oxygen transport. The
nucleus and cytoplasm of the erythrocytes are typically smaller than normal, and
there is no significant asynchrony in their development. Hence, this option is
not a characteristic feature of nuclear cytoplasmic asynchrony.
3. Erythroblastosis Fetalis: This is a condition that occurs when an Rh-negative
mother has an Rh-positive fetus. The mother's immune system produces antibodies
against the fetal red blood cells, leading to their destruction. This causes
anemia in the newborn. However, erythroblastosis fetalis is not typically
associated with nuclear cytoplasmic asynchrony. The anemia is a result of
hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) rather than an intrinsic defect in
the development of the cells themselves. Thus, this option is not the correct
answer for this characteristic feature.
correct answer is:
1. Megaloblastic anemia
This is because megaloblastic anemia is the condition where nuclear cytoplasmic
asynchrony is a hallmark feature due to the disproportionate growth of the
nucleus and cytoplasm in red blood cell precursors, resulting from vitamin B12
or folic acid deficiencies affecting DNA synthesis.