Why is Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) High? Causes, Symptoms, and What to Do

Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) is a measurement of the average size of your red blood cells. It's an important part of a complete blood count (CBC) test. A high MCV can indicate various health conditions, so understanding what it means and what actions to take is important.

What is Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)?

MCV is a measure of the average volume of a single red blood cell, expressed in femtoliters (fL). The typical adult range for MCV is 80–100 fL. This measurement helps classify types of anemia, with values below 80 fL indicating microcytic anemia, values within the range indicating normocytic anemia, and values above 100 fL indicating macrocytic anemia.

Check your own value in the calculator above

Causes of High MCV

High MCV, also known as macrocytosis, can be caused by several conditions:

• Vitamin B12 or Folate Deficiency: These vitamins are crucial for red blood cell production, and their deficiency can lead to larger than normal red blood cells.
• Liver Disease: Conditions affecting the liver can alter the size of red blood cells.
• Alcohol Use: Excessive alcohol consumption can interfere with red blood cell production, leading to macrocytosis.
• Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid gland can sometimes cause increased MCV.

Symptoms Associated with High MCV

Symptoms of a high MCV often relate to the underlying cause. Common symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath. If the high MCV is due to vitamin deficiency, you might also experience numbness or tingling in the hands and feet.

How to Interpret Your MCV Results

If your MCV is above 100 fL, it is considered high. This could suggest the presence of macrocytic anemia. It's important to consider MCV in the context of other blood test results and clinical symptoms to understand the underlying cause. Discuss your results with a healthcare provider for a complete interpretation.

Frequently asked questions

What is considered a high MCV level?

An MCV level above 100 fL is considered high. This is typically associated with macrocytic anemia.

Can dehydration affect MCV levels?

Dehydration can sometimes cause temporary changes in blood test results, but it is not a common cause of high MCV.

Is high MCV always a sign of a serious condition?

Not necessarily. While high MCV can indicate certain health issues, it is important to consider it alongside other test results and symptoms.

When to see a doctor

You should consult a doctor if your blood test shows a high MCV, especially if you are experiencing symptoms like fatigue or weakness. A healthcare provider can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. Remember, it is important to discuss your health concerns with a qualified healthcare professional.

Decisions about your health should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.