Search results
Results From The WOW.Com Content Network
The normal mean corpuscular volume (abbreviated to MCV on full blood count results, and also known as mean cell volume) is approximately 80–100 fL. When the MCV is <80 fL, the red cells are described as microcytic and when >100 fL, macrocytic (the latter occurs in macrocytic anemia). The MCV is the average red blood cell size.
Macrocytosis is a condition where red blood cells are larger than normal. [1] These enlarged cells, also known as macrocytes, are defined by a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) that exceeds the upper reference range established by the laboratory and hematology analyzer (usually >110 fL). [2]
In pernicious anemia (macrocytic), MCV can range up to 150 femtolitres. [4] (as are an elevated GGT and an AST/ALT ratio of 2:1). Vitamin B12 and/or folic acid deficiency has also been associated with macrocytic anemia (high MCV numbers).
In some cases, a drug can cause the immune system to mistakenly think the body's own red blood cells are dangerous, foreign substances. Antibodies then develop against the red blood cells. The antibodies attach to red blood cells and cause them to break down too early. It is known that more than 150 drugs can cause this type of hemolytic anemia ...
Alcoholism commonly causes a macrocytosis, although not specifically anemia. Other types of liver disease can also cause macrocytosis. Drugs such as methotrexate, zidovudine, and other substances may inhibit DNA replication such as heavy metals; Macrocytic anemia can be further divided into "megaloblastic anemia" or "nonmegaloblastic macrocytic ...
A diagnosis of PA first requires demonstration of megaloblastic anemia by conducting a full blood count and blood smear, which evaluates the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), as well the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). [50] PA is identified with a high MCV (macrocytic anemia) and a normal MCHC (normochromic anemia). [54]
About half of the cases are of unknown cause, with the other half attributable to a predisposing condition or medications being taken. Contrary to cold autoimmune hemolytic anemia (e.g., cold agglutinin disease and paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria) which happens in cold temperature (28–31 °C), WAIHA happens at body temperature. [citation needed]
Macrocytic anemias have several causes but with the implementation of folic acid fortification in North America, folate deficiency has become a rare cause of megaloblastic macrocytic anemia in that part of the world. [1] In this region, Vitamin B 12 deficiency is a far more common cause of megaloblastic macrocytic anemia. [1]