Should my doctor be concerned that my MCV is low?

Answer by  newgeneration (699)

Sometimes, it can depend on what other tests are performed with it. In a patient who is anemic, a low MCV result means the person's anemia is microcytic and was caused by an iron deficiency, thalassemia, or chronic disease. In someone with bloody stool and a positive stool guaiac test, low MCV indicates gastrointestinal cancer.

Answer by  tbk (257)

Test result vary from high to low may be due to race, dietetic preference, age, sex, menstrual cycle,physical activity, problems with collection or handling of the specimen, non-prescription drugs, prescription drugs, alcohol intake and a number of non-illness-related factors. Eating red meat, veggies containing iron. If your problem is more than just a minor deficiency, your doc should be notified.

Answer by  JeffD (238)

MCV, or mean corpuscular volume, is a measure of red blood cells in your body. If MCV is low, this can be a cause for concern.

Answer by  feodin (201)

The MCV is important for differentiating types of anemia. If your hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are normal and your MCV is only slightly low, it is not concerning.

Answer by  champaign9497 (11977)

As far as that goes you need to contact your doctor and they will let you know if it is caused for them or for you to be concerned about the ailment.

Answer by  Bobinski (1652)

This test shows the size of the the red blood cells. It is done to help determine if you are at risk for a certain type of anemia.