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What is MCV?

MCV, or mean corpuscular volume, is a measurement of the average size of your red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to every cell in your body. MCV is expressed in femtoliters (fL) and is calculated by dividing the volume of red blood cells by the total number of red blood cells. This measurement is part of a complete blood count (CBC), one of the most common blood tests ordered by healthcare providers.

Why is MCV important?

MCV helps identify and classify different types of anemia, a condition where you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues. The size of your red blood cells provides important clues about the underlying cause of anemia.
Low MCV (microcytic anemia) may indicate iron deficiency, thalassemia, or chronic disease. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, and cold hands and feet.
High MCV (macrocytic anemia) may point to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, liver disease, hypothyroidism, or excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms can include fatigue, weakness, pale or yellowish skin, numbness or tingling in hands and feet, and difficulty with balance.
Normal MCV does not rule out anemia entirely, as you can have normocytic anemia related to kidney disease, bone marrow disorders, or acute blood loss. If you are concerned with your levels, it is important to consult with your physician.

How can I better understand my MCV levels?

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume):

  • Low (Microcytic): Less than 80 fL
  • Normal: 80 to 100 fL
  • High (Macrocytic): Greater than 100 fL

MCV results are interpreted alongside other red blood cell indices like MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) and MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) to provide a complete picture of red blood cell health. Your healthcare provider will also consider your hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cell count when evaluating your results.
It is important to note that certain factors can temporarily affect MCV levels. Recent blood transfusions, medications, and the timing of blood draw can influence results. Your healthcare provider will take your full medical history into account when interpreting your MCV.

How can I maintain optimal MCV levels?

If you need to maintain or adjust your MCV levels, consider the following strategies:
Dietary Changes: If your MCV is low, increase your intake of iron-rich foods such as red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals. If your MCV is high, ensure adequate intake of vitamin B12 (found in meat, fish, dairy, and fortified foods) and folate (found in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified grains).
Supplementation: Based on your specific deficiency, your healthcare provider may recommend iron supplements, vitamin B12 injections or oral supplements, or folic acid supplementation. Always consult with your provider before starting any supplementation regimen.
Lifestyle Changes: If elevated MCV is related to alcohol consumption, reducing or eliminating alcohol intake can help normalize levels. Managing underlying conditions such as thyroid disorders or liver disease is also important for maintaining healthy MCV levels.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation of your MCV results and for personalized health recommendations.