Types

• From the estimated Hb content, PCV and red cell count, it is possible to derive other values, which indicate the red cell volume, haemoglobin content and concentration in the red cells. These values are commonly referred to as the red blood cell indices.
• MCV – defines the volume or size of the average RBC. It is a measurement...

Description

In adults :

• 78-96 fl / micrometer³

When to get Tested

• As a part of Complete Blood count
• When there is s/s of anemia (weakness or fatigue, Lack of energy, fainting, pallor, shortness of breath, irregular heart beat)
• When there is s/s suggesting an infection or inflammation

Elevated Level

• When MCV is elevated the condition is called macrocytosis.
• It occurs due to a number of diseases, the most important being the megaloblastosis of the bone marrow due to vitamin B₁₂ or folate deficiency
• Myelodysplasia
• Liver disease
• Hypothyroidism

Decreased Level

• Iron deficiency (as in iron deficiency anemia)
• Globin deficiency (as in Thalassemia)
• Microcytosis frequently occurs in anemia due to hypoproteinemia and iron deficiency