Mean Corpuscular Volume image
Expert opinion from Marcelle Freire
Doctor of Medicine · 3 years of experience · Brazil
Mean corpuscular volume, or MCV, is a hematimetric indicator that we obtain through the exam called hemogram, which translates the average size of red blood cells for us. When altered, either for more or for less, it can mean that some pathology is affecting the production of red blood cells, directly or indirectly. Generally, low MCV indicates production of small red blood cells, something that can be due to diseases, such as iron deficiency anemia, but which can also be due to genetic diseases such as thalassemia (but in this case, the patient tends to have a persistently lower MCV throughout life, even though iron levels are normal). Several other diseases can change the mean volume of red blood cells, and in case of persistent changes or associated with clinical symptoms or other laboratory changes, a physician should be consulted.
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Expert opinion from Howard E. Lewine
M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA
MCV stands for mean corpuscular volume of red blood cells. A low MCV means the average size of all the person’s red blood cells is smaller than normal. The most common reasons for a low MCV are iron deficiency and an inherited trait called thalassemia minor. Iron deficiency is easily treated with supplements, and thalassemia minor does not require treatment.
Expert opinion from Jerry T Todd
Doctor of Medicine · 9 years of experience · USA
Low MCV may indicate that the body does not have enough red blood cells, which is called anemia. Low MCV usually results from iron deficiency but may also be caused by other chronic diseases. Anemia may cause weakness and fatigue.
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Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors, and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns.
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