What is Mean Corpuscular Volume?

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) measure the size of an average red blood cell. The test is completed by counting red blood cells in a given space and dividing the size of the given space by the total number of red blood cells. MCV testing is part of the complete blood count (CBC) test ordered during some yearly physicals. CBC tests can also be ordered as a diagnostic tool for unexplained symptoms or to rule out/prove disease.

Normal value range

• Negative Pregnancy Adult: 79 to 93 µm3 or 79 to 93 fl
• Pregnancy Trimester One: 85 to 97.8 µm3 or 85 to 97.8 fl
• Pregnancy Trimester Two: 85.8 to 99.4 µm3 or 85.8 to 99.4 fl
• Pregnancy Trimester Three: 82.4n to 100.4 µm3 or 82.4 to 100.4 fl

Low mean corpus volume can be associated with anemia, thalassemias, iron deficiency and Shahidi-Nathan-Diamond syndrome. High mean corpus volume can be caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, impaired vitamin absorption, hyperthyroidism, celiac disease and deficient enzymes. If the patient is an alcoholic, deficient folate levels can also cause elevated values.

Medications, including birth control pills and anticonvulsants may affect MCV measurements.