MCV — Mean Corpuscular Volume
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) is the average volume of a single red blood cell, measured in femtoliters (fL). MCV helps classify anemias based on red blood cell size and helps understand whether red blood cells are larger or smaller than normal.
Normal MCV values:
- Adults: 80–100 fL
- Children: 75–95 fL (depending on age)
Types of red blood cells based on MCV:
- Normocytic (MCV 80–100 fL) — normal size, often in acute blood loss, chronic diseases.
- Microcytic (MCV < 80 fL) — reduced size, often in iron deficiency anemia, thalassemia.
- Macrocytic (MCV > 100 fL) — increased size, in vitamin B12 deficiency, folic acid deficiency, alcoholism.
Causes of increased MCV (macrocytosis):
- Vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency
- Alcoholism
- Liver diseases
- Hypothyroidism
- Myelodysplastic syndrome
- Certain medications (cytostatics, anticancer drugs)
Causes of decreased MCV (microcytosis):
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Thalassemia
- Chronic blood loss
- Sideroblastic anemia
- Lead poisoning
Why MCV is measured:
- To clarify the type of anemia
- To identify iron or vitamin deficiencies
- To diagnose liver, bone marrow, and thyroid diseases
Interpretation features:
- MCV is always analyzed together with other parameters: MCH, MCHC, RDW, hemoglobin, and red blood cells.
- MCV can be normal even with anemia—it is important to consider the clinical picture and other indicators.
How the test is performed:
- Blood is drawn from a finger or vein, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach
- Before the test, it is not recommended to smoke, consume alcohol, or engage in physical activity