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MCV Blood Test (Mean Corpuscular Volume)

MCV blood test is a parameter used in hematology to assess the average size of red blood cells in the blood and help in diagnosis of anemia. In this article, we will explore the different causes of a high VGM and a low VGM, as well as the interpretation of the results of these measures.



◉ What does an MCV test tell you ?

◉ The doctor may order a complete blood count, which includes a MCV test , as part of a regular medical examination or when a person has symptoms that may be related to disorders affecting blood cells (e.g. anemia), such as:

  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Pale skin tone
  • Headache
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulties concentrating or thinking
  • Mouth ulcers, sore tongue
  • Bruises
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nails that break easily
  • Acceleration of the heart rate

◉ The Mean Corpuscular Volume is a useful test, along with other parameters, to distinguish between the different types of anemia: macrocytic, normocytic or microcytic anemia (See interprétation)

◉ It can also help establish a prognosis for certain cancers (eg esophageal cancer) and chronic kidney disease.


◉ Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

In general, there are no special preparations to make before the analysis, it is a routine blood test that can be done at any time and does not require fasting , unless your blood sample will be used for further testing.

  • Does not require fasting.
  • Type of sample: Blood test, EDTA tube (purple color)

◉ What happens during an MCV blood test?

During the MCV blood test, a healthcare professional will use a small needle to draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The needle insertion might cause a brief stinging sensation.


◉ MCV Levels

A MCV measured is expressed in cubic micrometres (µm3) or femtolitres (fL) (1 µm3 = 1 fL).

  • The normal MCV level of adult / child is between 80 and 100 fL (80 to 100 µm 3).
  • A normal level of MCV of the newborn is between 96 and 108 fL ( 96 to 108 µm3).

Note

  • The MCV value is usually quite stable and changes slowly unless a person receives a blood transfusion.
  • Diet, activity level, medications, menstruation, and other conditions may affect test results.
  • MCV blood test value may increase as a person ages. Almost 30% of older people have high levels of MCV without any specific medical condition.
  • Certain medications (metformin, methotrexate) can cause impaired absorption of vitamin B12 and folate (high MCV).

◉ Results interpretation

An MCV test alone is not enough, the doctor will use the results of other tests (TCMH, CCMH, IDR) and your medical history to make a diagnosis.

Normal range for MCV

The normal range for MCV in a blood test is typically between 80 and 100 fl. This range may slightly vary depending on the specific laboratory and reference values used.

In certain conditions, it is possible to have anemia even with a normal MCV value, and it can be classified as normocytic anemia

MCV blood test high

◉ High MCV >100 fL may indicate that you have macrocytic anemia, the red blood cells are larger than they should be. Here are some possible causes:

MCV blood test low

◉ Low MCV <80 fL may indicate that you have microcytic anemia, red blood cells are smaller than they should be. This can be caused by:


◉ What other tests could I have with this test?


◉ Frequently Asked Questions

What level of MCV is concerning?

The normal range for MCV is approximately 80 to 100 femtoliters (fl). If someone's MCV level is below 80 fl, they could develop or have microcytic anemia. Alternatively, if their MCV levels are greater than 100 fl, they could develop macrocytic anemia.

How is the MCV calculated?

MCV = hematocrit (percentage) x 10 / number of red blood cells (millions/mm3 of blood)

Having a very high MCV?

Typically indicates macrocytic anemia. If MCV levels are elevated at 125+ femtoliters, this is usually due to vitamin B12 deficiency.

How to improve low levels of Mean Corpuscular Volume in the blood?

Low levels of Mean Corpuscular Volume can be caused by iron deficiency in the blood. Taking iron-rich foods or supplements can help improve MCV levels.

How do I reduce high levels of MCV in the blood?

High MCV values are most often a consequence of vitamin b12 deficiency. Taking supplements or foods rich in vitamin b-12 can help improve the situation.

How can I get an MCV test?

To get an MCV blood test, it is necessary to schedule an appointment and visit a healthcare provider. This provider can be a physician, nurse, or lab technician who has the authority to order the test for you.

Taking an MCV Test

Once you arrive at the laboratory, a trained professional called a phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from your arm. They will use a sterile needle to draw a small amount of blood into a collection tube. The blood sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis.

What are the risks of this test?

The MCV blood test is generally safe with minimal risks. Possible discomfort during needle insertion, minor bruising, or faintness are some rare risks. Serious complications are extremely unlikely.


Sources

  1. Daniel H. Ryan - Examination of Blood Cells
  2. David S Rosenthal et al - Evaluation of the peripheral blood smear
  3. Naoya Yoshida et al - Clinical Importance of Mean Corpuscular Volume as a Prognostic Marker After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer: A Retrospective Study
  4. Lynne Eldridge et al - What Is a Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) Blood Test?
  5. Brittany S et al - Mean Corpuscular Volume
  6. medlineplus - MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)
  7. HORIBA medical - Overview of Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV/HCT)
  8. ebmconsult - Lab Test: MCV, Mean Corpuscular Volume Level
  9. dxsaver - What is MCV Blood Test? | Causes & Symptoms of High & Low MCV Levels in Blood
  10. Allison Flynn Becker - MCV Blood Test: What High and Low Levels Mean
  11. testing - MCV Blood Test (Mean Corpusal Volume)
  12. Pautas E et al - Anémies: chez le sujet âgé, des causes spécifiques.