Hematology: mean corpuscular volume

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Sections available in full article Overview, Uses, Sampling, Source of test material, Quantity of test material, Sample collection technique, Test (s), Methodologies, Validity, Result data, Normal (reference) values, Abnormal values, Errors and Artifacts, Sources, Publications, Vetstream contributor(s),
Contributors Dr Kathleen P Freeman DVM MS PhD MRCVS
Dr Karen L Gerber BVSc(Hons) DipACVP(clin path) MRCVS Accredited Specialist Clinical Pathologist (Australia)
Dr Andy Torrance MA VetMB PhD DipACVIM MRCVS
Synonyms MCV

Overview

  • A measure of the mean RBC volume, calculated from the PCV and the RBC count.
  • Volume must change in a significant proportion of red blood cells in order to alter the value from normal.
  • May be measured directly by large commercial analysers.

Uses

In combination

  • With reticulocyte count and low MCHC  Hematology: mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration  - regenerative anemia.
  • With serum iron level and total iron-binding capacity - chronic iron deficiency.
  • With normal MCHC - megaloblastic anemia (rare).
  • Myeloproliferative disorders.

Other points

  • Macrocytosis.

Result data

Normal (reference) values

  • 37-49 fl.

Abnormal values

Increased cell size (macrocytosis)
  •   →   Increased MCV:
    • Reticulocytosis.
    • Megaloblastic anemia.
    • Myeloproliferative disorders.
    • Severe regenerative anemias  Hematology: red blood cell count  .
    • Hereditary stomatocytosis.

    Decreased cell size (microcytosis)
  •   →   Decreased MCV:
    • Chronic iron deficiency/blood loss.

Errors and Artifacts

False decrease
  • Hemolysis, eg in electronic RBC counter.
  • Occasionally macroplatelets counted as red blood cells by automatic counter.
    False increase
  • Inadequate centrifuging of sample.

Sources

Publications

Other sources of information

  • Cowell R L, Tyler R D & Meinkoth J H (1999) Diagnostic Cytology and Hematology of the Dog and Cat. 2nd edn. Mosby, St Louis.
  • Duncan J R, Prasse K W & Mahaffy E A (1994) Veterinary Laboratory Medicine Clinical Pathology. 3rd edn. Iowa University Press, Ames, Iowa.
  • Jain N C (1993) Essentials of Veterinary Hematology. Lea & Febiger, Philadelphia.

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