MCV Blood Test
The MCV (mean corpuscular volume) blood test is a standard diagnostic test that is typically done as part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. During the test, a healthcare provider will take a blood sample from your arm using a needle. The blood is then collected in a vial and sent to a laboratory for analysis.
What Is MCV in Blood Test?
The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) is a measure of the average size of red blood cells and is typically assessed through a complete blood count (CBC). By analyzing the size of red blood cells, an MCV blood test can provide valuable diagnostic information for healthcare providers. Results from the MCV test, in combination with other tests, can help identify various medical conditions such as anemia, liver disease, and other health issues.
Because it irregular to have a high quantity of large or small red blood cells an MCV test is useful for helping to discover certain conditions.
As part of a complete blood count (CBC), an MCV (mean corpuscular volume) blood test is performed routinely using an automated machine that provides information about the red blood cells, known as the RBC indices. The RBC indices include several measurements, such as the average size of red blood cells (MCV), the average amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells (MCH), the average hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and the variation in size of red blood cells (RDW).
Although an MCV test alone is not sufficient for a diagnosis, when combined with the results of other tests, it can aid healthcare providers in assessing the health of red blood cells and identifying potential medical conditions. For instance, low MCV may indicate iron deficiency anemia, requiring further testing for iron deficiency. On the other hand, certain medical conditions like liver disease, vitamin B12 or folate deficiency can also cause changes in MCV.
Overall, an MCV blood test is an important diagnostic tool for assessing the health of red blood cells and identifying underlying medical conditions. It is routinely performed as part of a CBC and may require additional testing to confirm or rule out specific diagnoses.
Why Do I Need an MCV Test?
An MCV blood test is something your doctor might order as part of a regular blood test, such as a complete blood count (CBC), or on its own to help diagnose certain medical conditions. The test measures the average size of your red blood cells and can provide valuable information about your overall health.
For example, if you have anemia, which is when you don’t have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in your blood, the MCV test can help your doctor identify this condition. The MCV test can also help diagnose other blood disorders like vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, or liver disease, which can affect the production and breakdown of red blood cells.
If you’ve been feeling tired, weak, dizzy, or short of breath, your doctor might recommend an MCV blood test to investigate further. It’s worth noting that an MCV test is just one part of a larger diagnostic process and should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of your overall health.
Some reasons why you may need this test include if you’re experiencing:
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irregular heartbeat
- Headache
Mobile Phlebotomy
At Speedy Sticks, we provide exceptional mobile phlebotomy services that bring convenience and comfort to our clients. Our team of experienced phlebotomists delivers professional, reliable, and high-quality blood draw services to your doorstep. With our flexible scheduling options, you can receive the care you need on your terms. Contact us today to experience our phenomenal services and take the first step towards optimal health.
What To Expect During a MCV Test
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample using a small needle usually a butterfly. The phlebotomist or healthcare professional will fill a small tube or vial. Once the draw is completed the samples are transported to a laboratory for processing.
The collection process takes less than 10 minutes.
Learn more below about the various kinds of diagnostic tests offered by Speedy Sticks.
How to Interpret MCV Test Results
Interpreting MCV test results involves comparing your MCV to a reference range, which is the set of values that a laboratory expects for a healthy individual. This reference range is based on the results of a large sample of healthy people and is associated with the equipment and procedures of the laboratory that conducts the test.
Typically, MCV is reported in femtoliters (fL), and a typical MCV reference range is listed as 80-98 fL by the American Board of Internal Medicine. If MCV levels fall within the reference range, they are considered to be within the expected range for a healthy individual. If the MCV result is outside of the reference range, it may be reported as high or low.
It’s worth noting that MCV levels can be normal or abnormal in both healthy individuals and those with health conditions such as anemia. Abnormal MCV results can indicate different types of anemia, such as microcytic anemia (caused by iron deficiency, lead poisoning, or thalassemia), normocytic anemia (caused by sudden blood loss, kidney failure, or aplastic anemia), or macrocytic anemia (caused by low folate or vitamin B12 levels or chemotherapy).
When interpreting MCV test results, your doctor will not just look at the MCV value alone but will also consider other RBC indices and CBC values such as hemoglobin and hematocrit, as well as any symptoms or changes in your health.
If you receive abnormal MCV test results, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider to understand what the results mean for your health, if any further testing is required, and what steps you can take to improve your health if needed.
Book at Home Blood Work
We are dedicated to delivering exceptional mobile phlebotomy services at Speedy Sticks. Our mission is to provide convenience and comfort to our clients through our team of experienced and reliable phlebotomists. We offer high-quality blood draw services right to your doorstep, all while maintaining the utmost professionalism.
Our flexible scheduling options ensure that you receive the care you need at your convenience. Take the first step towards optimal health and experience our phenomenal services today.