A low MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) in a blood test indicates that your red blood cells are smaller than normal, which can be a sign of microcytic anemia. This means your body isn't producing enough hemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Several conditions can cause low MCV, including:
- Iron deficiency: This is the most common cause of microcytic anemia.
- Lead poisoning: Lead can interfere with the production of hemoglobin.
- Thalassemia: This is a genetic condition that causes your body to produce less hemoglobin than normal.
If your MCV is low, your doctor may recommend further testing to determine the underlying cause. Treatment will depend on the specific cause of your low MCV. For example, iron deficiency anemia is typically treated with iron supplements.
