General Information About the Test
MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) is one of the most critical indices of the complete blood count (Hemogram) test and measures the "Average Size (Volume)" of red blood cells (erythrocytes). In a patient diagnosed with anemia, it is the first value the physician looks at to understand whether the cause of the anemia is iron deficiency, a vitamin deficiency, or a genetic Mediterranean anemia (Thalassemia).
Test Process and Preparation
MCV volume measurement and anemia investigations.
What does a low MCV (Microcytosis) mean?
It indicates that red blood cells are being produced at smaller sizes than normal. In cases of iron deficiency anemia and Thalassemia (Mediterranean anemia), which is a genetic trait, the red blood cells shrink, lowering the MCV value.
What causes elevated MCV (Macrocytosis)?
In cases of Vitamin B12 or Folate (Folic Acid) deficiency, which are necessary for cell division, the red blood cells cannot divide and remain as unusually large, swollen cells (macrocytes), which raises the MCV.
Is fasting required for the test?
Because MCV is a complete blood count (CBC) parameter, it does not strictly require fasting before blood is drawn. It can also be measured on a full stomach.
The information on this page is for informational purposes only. The results of medical tests must be evaluated by specialist physicians.
