MPV and MCV: A Deep Dive into Blood Test Results

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Have you ever wondered what your blood tests are trying to tell you? If you have ever had a blood test, then you have also encountered the terms MPV and MCV. These two measurements reveal your blood cell health and overall well-being. In this blog, we will break down MPV and MCV, why it matters, and what these blood test results are telling you about your health.

What is MPV in a blood test?

MPV stands for Mean Platelet Volume which is the measurement of the average size of your platelets or small blood cells produced in the bone marrow. These platelets are responsible for clotting when you get cuts or injuries.

Normal range of MPV: 7.5 to 11 fL (femtoliters) for adults and 8.0 to 12 fL(femtoliters) for children.

The change in these values indicates different health issues.

What does high MPV mean in blood test results?

The blood test showing high MPV indicates that bone marrow is producing more platelets. The size of the new platelet is larger than the normal size therefore it might indicate that the bone marrow is producing more platelets from recent blood loss.

Conditions related to high MPV in blood tests:

  • Heart diseases
  • marrow diseases
  • Inflammatory disorders

What does low MPV mean in blood test results?

Low MPV means that the platelets are smaller in size than the normal size. This means that the bone marrow is not producing enough new platelets or there is dysfunction in the bone marrow.

Conditions related to low MPV in blood tests:

  • Bone marrow failure
  • Aplastic anemia
  • Chronic kidney disease

Thrombocytopenia

The condition in patients with low platelet count is called thrombocytopenia which is important for blood clotting. A low platelet count can increase the risk of bleeding. Symptoms include easy bruising, nose or gum bleeds, fatigue, weakness, etc.

 

 

Why is MPV important?

MPV is important because it helps us understand the following:

  • Indicates activity and function of platelets.
  • Help us diagnose blood disorders such as Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and Thrombocytosis (high platelet count)
  • Indicates inflammation or disease.
  • Monitoring chronic conditions.
  • Evaluating bone marrow activity.

What is MCV in a blood test?

MCV stands for Mean Corpuscular Volume which is the measurement of the average size of red blood cells also known as RBCs.

Normal range of MCV: 80 to 100 fL(femtoliters) in adults.

The change in MCV helps us identify different types of anemia and information about the cause of abnormal red blood cell production.

What does high MCV mean in blood tests?

High MCV, the condition also known as macrocytosis, indicates that your red blood cells are larger than normal. The patients whose MCV is high means they have macrocytic anemia that can be caused by the following reasons.

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency
  • Folate deficiency
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Liver disease
  • Hypothyroidism

What does low MCV mean in blood tests?

Low MCV, also known as microcytosis, indicates your red blood cells are smaller than normal. This condition affects the production of protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen known as hemoglobin. This condition can be caused by the following reasons.

  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Thalassemia
  • Chronic blood loss

Why is MCV important?

MCV is important for the following reasons:

  • Helps us diagnose and classify types of anemia.
  • Understanding red blood cell production.
  • Assessing nutritional deficiencies.
  • Identifying underlying diseases.
  • Tracking disease progression and treatment response.
  • Comprehensive diagnostic tool.

What to do if your MPV or MCV test is abnormal?

If you see that your MPV or MCV is not in the normal range, it is important to see a doctor because it can indicate underlying health issues.

Conclusion

In blood tests, MPV and MCV play an important role in indicating blood health and overall well-being. MPV is the measurement of the size of the platelets and MCV is the measurement of the size of red blood cells. These tests help doctors to diagnose various conditions and identify types of anemia. If you see that your MVP and MCV are not in the normal range, then follow up with your healthcare provider as it can indicate the underlying issues!

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