The MCV is a measure of the actual volume occupied by a red blood cell.
This measurement is clinically significant in the presence of anemia as it allows for categorizing the type of anemia.
Causes of Macrocytic Anemia (Increased MCV)
Poor diet
Starvation
Malabsorbtion
Intestinal diseases
Malignancy
Hyperthyroidism
Alcoholism
Pregnancy
Causes of Normocytic Anemia (Normal MCV)
Hemorrhage
Hemolysis
Bone marrow malfunction
Normal Values*
MCV
87-103 cubic µm/red cell
*These are general values taken from a variety of sources. The actual normal values may vary from lab to lab and from one type of testing protocol to another.
Source: Operational Medicine 2001, Health Care in Military Settings, NAVMED P-5139, May 1, 2001, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, Department of the Navy, 2300 E Street NW, Washington, D.C., 20372-5300
