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.
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.
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Magnesium is an essential mineral for the body. It is needed for the functioning of the nervous system and several enzymes.
Iron is needed for the formation of red blood cells’ haemoglobin. In addition, it acts as a catalyst in many enzyme reactions.
Folate, or folic acid, is a group B vitamin obtained from food. It is an essential nutrient for humans.
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The LDL cholesterol level shows the amount of harmful cholesterol in the blood. Elevated cholesterol increases the risk of atherosclerosis.
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TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland. TSH is tested when examining thyroid function.
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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:
19 February 2024
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