What is the Average Corpuscular Volume (VCM) and normal values?
The Average Corpuscular Volume (VCM) it is another of the elements that we usually find in a routine blood test, forming part of what is medically known as a blood count. And what is it in Average Corpuscular Volume or VCM? It basically refers to the size of red blood cells. And its alteration (either above or below the normal value) can serve as an alert on a certain pathology or disease.
That is, since the analysis of VCM - and its value - is especially useful to know the average size of red blood cells (RBCs), it allows for example to classify certain diseases according to whether the size of the red blood cells is greater or lesser. (for example, in the case of anemias, which may be macrocytic or microcytic).
What is the normal value of the Average Corpuscular Volume (VCM)?
Although the normal values of any parameter that we find in the blood test can vary slightly from one laboratory to another, the normal value of the Average Corpuscular Volume is between 80 and 100 fL (femtoliters per erythrocyte). However, in people who are habitual smokers it is possible that the normal values are between 80 and 103 fL.
Therefore, any value above or below this figure is considered abnormal, and it is necessary to establish what may be the causes that are influencing the alteration of the VCM.
Abnormal Values of the Average Corpuscular Volume. What are your causes?
Low VCM (or Decreased Average Corpuscular Volume)
The cause of finding a low mean Corpuscular Volume may be due to minor thalassemia (alterations of hemoglobin) or anemia, especially if it is, as is logical to assume, of a microcytic anemia.
In turn, we may find a low VCM value in case of iron deficiency, uremia, infections that tend to be severe, congenital spherocytosis or certain collagen diseases.
High VCM (or High Medium Corpuscular Volume)
The high value of the Average Corpuscular Volume can be due to a greater number of diseases, disorders or pathologies, especially in case of megaloblastic, macrocytic or pernicious anemia.
In addition, it is also possible that the value of the size of red blood cells is altered - and therefore elevated - in the case of: myelodysplastic syndromes, hypothyroidism, vitamin B12 deficiency, folic acid deficiency, down syndrome, alcohol dependence and acute bleeds.
The importance of VAW in the diagnosis of anemia
As we saw in the article dedicated to Iron deficiency anemia, the analysis of the VCM can be tremendously useful at the time of diagnosing the anemia, since it allows to know what size the red blood cells or red blood cells have. Also, if this analysis is combined with the value of the Medium Corpuscular Hemoglobin (HCM), your diagnosis can be much more precise.
Thus, the following values can be established:
- VCM and low HCM: microcytic anemia.
- High MCV: microcytic anemia.
- VCM and normal HCM: normocytic anemia.
It is, as we see, a parameter of some importance in any routine blood test, and for this reason it is very common to find it in most basic blood tests. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.
