MCV in blood test report: it's full form, meaning and more

The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is the parameter calculated in the CBC report that determines the volume and size of your red blood cells. The parameter is essential to observe your RBCs and diagnose any abnormal health condition. In this article, gather information about MCV in detail, along with the effect of abnormal levels of MCV on your health. 

What is MCV in a Blood Test Report?

MCV calculated in the blood test report stands for the mean corpuscular volume. The MCV is a laboratory value that refers to the average volume and size of the red blood cells (RBCs). The normal value of MCV ranges from 80fL to 100fL. The value of MCV helps in determining the etiology of anemia. According to the value of MCV, the etiology of anemia can be of the following types:

• Microcytic anemia: The value of MCV is less than 80fL. In such a case, the red blood cells are smaller than normal and much smaller than the leukocytes.
• Macrocytic anemia: The value of MCV is greater than 100fL. In such a case, the average volume of red blood cells is larger than normal.
• Normocytic anemia: In this type of anemia, the value of MCV lies within the normal range, but the hemoglobin levels are low.

The level of MCV in the blood is measured by multiplying the percentage of hematocrit by 10 and dividing the resultant by the observed erythrocyte count.

What do high and low levels of MCV in the blood indicate?

The normal levels of MCV are dependent on your age and gender as well. According to  a study, the normal levels of MCV are:

• The MCV levels for males between 12-18 years of age is 88 fL, while for adults, the value of MCV is 90 fL.
• The MCV level for females of all ages above 12 years is 90 fL.

The abnormal levels of MCV are an indication of some underlying disorder.

Low levels of MCV

The low level of MCV refers to the value of MCV below 80 fL. These low levels of MCV indicate smaller red blood cells that may be due to iron deficiency anemia or thalassemia. 

• Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia caused due to deficiency of iron in the body. The iron deficiency in the body can be due to excessive blood loss, reduced iron absorption, diet, and pregnancy.
• Thalassemia is a genetic condition wherein the body does not make enough normal hemoglobin. 

High levels of MCV

High levels of MCV are generally characterized by larger red blood cells and have a value greater than 100 fL. High levels of MCV may indicate conditions like vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency, liver disease, or hyperthyroidism. The high levels of MCV may be due to factors like autoimmune gastritis, following a vegan diet, excessive alcohol consumption, Crohn’s disease, medicines used for cancer treatment, and breastfeeding.

Takeaway

The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is an essential indicator of the level and condition of your red blood cells. The levels can help you evaluate and diagnose your health condition appropriately. Now that you know the factors that can cause abnormality in the level of MCV, you should include vitamin and iron-rich food in your diet to avoid any future complications.

Frequently Added Questions (FAQs)

• What is MCV Full Form

The MCV is an important part of the CBC and helps physicians identify the underlying aetiology of anaemia. The MCV full form is mean corpuscular volume. The MCV, along with other tests, enables clinicians to distinguish between the two major types of anaemia. Microcytic anaemia is characterized by smaller RBCs, while macrocytic anaemia is characterized by larger RBCs. Both types of anaemia require treatment. In both cases, low haemoglobin is the cause. However, some types of anaemia, such as thalassemia, are caused by an inherited disorder. During treatment, the patient is given specific diet instructions. Some people with iron deficiency may also have a low MCV. The MCV test can be ordered as a separate blood test or as a part of a CBC. The MCV level is within a reference range of 80-98 fl but can be reported as high or low. The MCV and CBC are often part of a panel of tests that determine how many red and white blood cells are in a person's body. 

• How can I get my MCV level tested?

The MCV levels are tested as a part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. The CBC test is a simple blood test that can be booked easily at Redcliffe labs by calling our pathology or booking the test online through our official website. Our Phlebotomist will collect your blood sample free of cost at your place itself. 

• Is the MCV value of 106 fL high?

Yes, the MCV value of 106 fL is considered high and indicates a high risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

• Do MCV levels fluctuate during the day?

No, the MCV levels do not fluctuate during the day. However, the levels increase slightly with age.