MCV is one of the parameters in a complete blood count (CBC). It is used to determine the size of red blood cells and provides information about them. Red blood cells are responsible for delivering oxygen to the body’s tissues. Normal MCV values in the body may vary depending on age and gender.
What Does a Low MCV Indicate?
A low MCV can pave the way for certain health conditions. The ideal MCV level can vary from person to person, but an MCV below 80 fl is considered low. A low MCV is referred to as “microcytic anemia,” which indicates that red blood cells are smaller than normal. In some cases, this condition can lead to serious problems—such as high blood pressure, shock, coronary artery disease, stenosis, and heart failure—that require immediate medical attention. The most common types of microcytic anemia are as follows:
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Mediterranean anemia
- Lead poisoning
- Any chronic illness
- Sideroblastic anemia
- Other causes include vitamin deficiency, heavy alcohol consumption, and medications.
What Are the Symptoms of Low MCV?
An MCV value that is too low or too high is not healthy. An MCV level outside the normal range can cause various symptoms depending on the extent of the abnormality. Some symptoms associated with low MCV include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Weakness
- Loss of strength
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Pale skin
- Hair loss
- Nail structure changes
In addition to these, anemia can develop due to causes such as low vitamin B12 levels or folic acid deficiency. This condition can negatively affect the MCV value. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should consult a healthcare provider and undergo blood tests, including a complete blood count.
What Does a High MCV Indicate?
It refers to cases where the MCV value is higher than 100 fl. Red blood cells are larger than normal, while the total red blood cell count is low. This condition is called macrocytic anemia. Macrocytic anemias are generally categorized as megaloblastic or non-megaloblastic anemia. Megaloblastic anemia results from a deficiency of vitamin B12 or folic acid. Non-megaloblastic macrocytic anemia, on the other hand, can be caused by liver dysfunction, alcohol, certain medications, and, more rarely, genetic disorders. The causes of an elevated MCV can be listed as follows:
- Liver disease
- Underactive thyroid
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Gastric surgery
- Anemia
- After a kidney transplant
- Excessive use of medication
- Lung disease
- MDS
- Hemolytic anemia
- Aplastic anemia
- Medications with side effects
What Symptoms Are Seen with Elevated MCV?
If the MCV level is above 100, it is considered that the cells have enlarged; this is called macrocytosis. Some symptoms associated with a high MCV include:
- Extreme fatigue
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Heart palpitations
- Fatigue after minimal exertion
- Shortness of breath
- Neurological symptoms such as forgetfulness, numbness, and loss of balance
- Sensitivity in the tongue and inside of the mouth
- Difficulty concentrating
- Inability to pay attention
What Is a Normal MCV Value?
Normal MCV ranges are generally accepted as 80–100. This indicates that the size of red blood cells is within the normal range. Even if your value is within the normal range, you may still have anemia. This condition is called normocytic anemia. The causes of normocytic anemia can be listed as follows:
- Rapid blood loss
- Artificial heart valve
- Tumors
- Kidney disease
- Endocrine system disorders
- Aplastic anemia
- Bacteria in the blood
How Is Low MCV Treated?
Treatment involves iron supplements and vitamin C. This treatment regimen may last 3–4 months. Afterward, a complete blood count and serum iron levels are checked. If heavy bleeding is present due to a menstrual cycle disorder, hormonal medications are prescribed. If microcytic anemia is characterized by a chronic condition, a treatment plan is implemented to address the underlying condition. If lead poisoning is present, appropriate medications are administered. If copper deficiency is present, copper supplementation is provided. In cases of chronic alcoholism, the patient undergoes alcohol treatment. In cases of hereditary severe anemia, patients are treated with regular, appropriate blood transfusions. Intensive treatment is not administered to patients with severe anemia. Treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection is carried out with appropriate antibiotic medications.