MCV is tested when looking for the causes of diagnosed anemia.
The mean corpuscular volume of red blood cells known as MCV indicates the average size of the red blood cells.
MCV is tested for example when looking for the causes of diagnosed anemia. Anemia is classified as microcytic if the MCV is below reference values, macrocytic if the MCV is above reference values, and normocytic if the MCV falls within the reference values.
MCV indicates the volume, or size, of the red blood cells.
For adults: 82 – 98 fL
Reference levels may vary depending on the laboratory and the test analysis method.
Low MCV value is a sign of microcytic anemia.
Microcytic anemias include:
Iron deficiency anemia is by far the most common type of anemia and can be caused, for example, by prolonged blood loss due to heavy menstruation or intestinal bleeding. It may also be caused by giving birth, donating blood, or poor absorption of iron. Iron deficiency can also occur when a person does not get enough iron in their diet.
In normocytic anemias, the volume of red blood cells is normal, but the hemoglobin level is low.
In normocytic anemias, the volume of red blood cells is normal, but their number is small.
Normocytic anemias include:
High MCV value is a sign of macrocytic anemia.
Macrocytic anemias include:
High MCV values can also be caused by folic acid deficiency.
If a working-age person has a normal hemoglobin level but elevated MCV, the reason is usually alcoholism. Cutting back alcohol consumption lowers the MCV value, but this takes months.
If the platelet count is too high, it is important to identify and treat the underlying causes of this condition. Common ways to manage platelet count include hydration and the use of blood thinners such as aspirin as directed by a doctor. In some cases, other medications or treatments may be used, such as blood thinners or treatments aimed at improving blood circulation. It is important to discuss with a doctor before starting any treatment.
An adult human has an average of about five liters of blood. The amount of blood can vary individually and is about 7-8% of a person’s total body weight. For example, a person weighing 70 kilograms has about five and a half liters of blood. The amount of blood is important as it transports oxygen and nutrients to different parts of the body and helps remove waste products.
Red blood cells live for an average of 120 days in the human body. After this, they are primarily broken down in the spleen, where their iron is salvaged and used to produce new red blood cells. The lifespan of red blood cells can vary among different people and under different conditions, but 120 days is a generally accepted average.
The treatment of macrocytosis typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause. If macrocytosis is due to a deficiency in vitamin B12 or folate, treatment includes supplementing these vitamins. If it is related to alcohol use, reducing or stopping alcohol consumption is recommended. The doctor may also prescribe other treatments depending on the cause of the macrocytosis.
The rate of decrease in MCV (mean corpuscular volume) depends on what has caused the change. For example, in the treatment of iron deficiency, MCV can start to decrease within a few weeks of starting iron supplementation. If the change in MCV is due to other health-related causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or bone marrow diseases, the rate of decrease can vary.
A complete blood count is usually taken when there is a desire to get a comprehensive picture of a person’s general health status or when there is a need to monitor certain health-related changes. A complete blood count can help identify various conditions, such as anemia.
Vital laboratory package Sport Woman includes 31 values that indicate what changes you can make in your lifestyle habits to improve your fitness and endurance.
Vital laboratory package Sport Man includes 30 values that indicate what changes you can make in your lifestyle habits to improve your fitness and endurance.
Blood count is a series of tests that measure for example the hemoglobin level in the blood. All of Vital’s laboratory packages include blood count.
Vital laboratory package Basic includes 21 values that give you a wide range of information on how your body is doing. It includes blood count, cholesterol levels, blood glucose, ferritin and studies of the functioning of the thyroid gland, liver and kidneys.
Basophils are white blood cells that fight parasitic diseases, prevent unnecessary blood clotting, and mediate allergic reactions.
Creatinine value helps assess kidney function.
Eosinophils play a particularly important role in reactions related to allergies, allergic dermatitis, and asthma.
The number of red blood cells is examined in connection with a blood count. In cases of anemia, the number of red blood cells is low.
White blood cells fight viruses, bacteria, parasites, and other intruders that threaten the health of the body.
When suspecting anemia, it is important to test the hemoglobin. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include paleness and fatigue.
Article updated:
23 October 2024