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Hematology: mean corpuscular volume
Synonym(s): 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.
Sampling
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Tests
Methodologies
- MCV = PCV (l/l) x 1000 divided by RBC count (10*12/l).
- Measured in femtolitres (fl).
Validity
Sensitivity
- Low.
Specificity
- Low.
Result Data
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed papers
- Recent references from VetMedResource and PubMed.
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, USA.
- Duncan J R, Prasse K W & Mahaffy E A (1994) Veterinary Laboratory Medicine Clinical Pathology. 3rd edn. Iowa University Press, USA.
- Jain N C (1993) Essentials of Veterinary Hematology. Lea & Febiger, USA.