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Blood health

Mean Corpuscular Volume

Also known as: MCV blood test, Mean cell volume, Erythrocyte volume test

The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) test measures the average size of your red blood cells (RBCs). RBCs transport oxygen throughout the body, and their size can reveal important details about your blood health. The MCV test is part of a complete blood count (CBC).

A normal MCV indicates healthy red blood cell size, while cells that are smaller (microcytic) or larger (macrocytic) than normal can signal specific types of anemia or nutritional deficiencies.

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Key takeaways

  • Sample required: Blood (usually from a vein in the arm)

  • Tests for: Average size of red blood cells (RBCs) to help identify types of anemia and other blood disorders.

  • Healthy range: Typically 80 to 100 femtoliters (fL) in adults.

What can an MCV test tell you?

The MCV test helps determine the average size of your RBCs, which assists in identifying and classifying types of anemia. 

Combined with hemoglobin, hematocrit, and other RBC measurements, MCV provides a complete picture of red blood cell health and can help your provider determine whether anemia is caused by a nutritional deficiency, bone marrow dysfunction, chronic illness, or something else.

What is being tested?

The MCV value is calculated using red blood cell count and hematocrit (the proportion of your blood that’s made up of RBCs). The calculation shows the average volume of individual red blood cells and helps providers identify whether RBCs are too large, too small, or normal in size.

Where is the MCV test typically included?

The MCV is calculated automatically as part of a complete blood count (CBC) panel, which evaluates your overall blood health. It may also be included in an anemia panel, used to determine the cause of anemia.

CBC with MCV testing is included as part of lab testing through Hers. Discover how to improve or optimize your health with clinically backed recommendations based on your results.

Who should get an MCV test?

Your provider may order an MCV test if you have symptoms of anemia, such as:

  • Fatigue or weakness

  • Pale skin

  • Shortness of breath

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Cold hands and feet

  • Irregular heartbeats

It’s also recommended for people with known chronic illness, malnutrition, alcohol use disorder, or a family history of anemia.

How Labs by Hers works

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    Get your results

    Review your lab results to understand which areas of your health may need attention.

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    Identify potential health risks or system imbalances before they become more serious.

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Not available in all 50 states. Eligibility and provider order required. Lab results alone are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. A provider will reach out about critical results and plans include access to 24/7 provider messaging.

Images for illustrative purposes only.

Frequently asked questions

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What causes changes in MCV levels?

Mean corpuscular volume (MCV) levels can change with nutrient deficiencies, chronic illness, or blood loss. Low MCV (below 80 fL) often occurs with iron-deficiency anemia, thalassemia, chronic blood loss from ulcers or heavy menstruation, or chronic inflammatory disease. High MCV (above 100 fL) is usually linked to vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol use disorder, certain medications such as chemotherapy or anticonvulsants, liver disease, hypothyroidism, or bone marrow disorders like myelodysplasia.

A normal MCV (80 to 100 fL) in the presence of anemia may indicate normocytic anemia, which can develop with chronic disease, kidney problems, or acute blood loss. Because “normal” and “abnormal” values vary by person and lab, only a healthcare provider can interpret MCV results accurately within the context of your overall health.

Is fasting required?

No, fasting is not necessary for a CBC or MCV test.

How long do results take?

Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours.

Can medications affect MCV?

Yes — chemotherapy, anticonvulsants, and certain antibiotics can raise MCV levels.

Does insurance cover this test?

Yes, it’s generally covered as part of routine CBC panels ordered for preventive care or diagnosis. Insurance is not required for lab testing available through the Hers platform.

What tests are related to this biomarker?

• Complete blood count (CBC)

• Hemoglobin and hematocrit

• Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH)

• Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC)

• Iron studies (ferritin, iron, TIBC)

• Vitamin B12 and folate tests

The information provided here is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to a qualified healthcare provider about your specific health concerns.

Related biomarkers

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Hematocrit

Hematocrit is a test that measures the percentage of your blood that is made up of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout your body. Being in the healthy range means your blood cells are successfully transporting oxygen to your tissues to sustain bodily functions.

Learn more about Hematocrit

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin is the protein inside your red blood cells that carries oxygen to your muscles and brain. Being in the healthy range means your blood cells have what they need to move oxygen to your tissues successfully.

Learn more about Hemoglobin

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) measures the average concentration of hemoglobin in your red blood cells, which reflects how effectively they carry oxygen. When MCHC is in the healthy range, it indicates that the body is likely not experiencing any red blood cell disorders or iron deficiency.

Learn more about Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC)

Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) measures the average amount of hemoglobin in each red blood cell, which shows how well your blood can carry oxygen. A healthy level means your blood has enough hemoglobin for proper oxygen transport.

Learn more about Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH)

Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Mean platelet volume (MPV) measures the average volume of your blood platelets, which play an essential role in blood clotting. When your MPV is in the healthy range, it suggests that your platelet volume is normal.

Learn more about Mean Platelet Volume (MPV)

Platelet Count

Platelets are the blood cells that help your body form clots, stopping bleeding when needed. A healthy platelet count means your body generally supports normal blood clotting when necessary.

Learn more about Platelet Count

Red Blood Cell Count

Red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen throughout your body. Your healthy red blood cell count is helping your organs and tissues function at their best.

Learn more about Red Blood Cell Count

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

Red cell distribution width (RDW) measures the variation in the size of your red blood cells, which can help detect early signs of anemia or other blood conditions. A healthy RDW suggests that your red blood cells are uniform and efficiently transporting oxygen throughout your body.

Learn more about Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW)

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Reviewed by Darragh O'Carroll, MD

Published 12/04/2025