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MCV – Mean Corpuscular Volume Unit Converter
Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) is a measure of the average volume (size) of a single red blood cell (RBC). It is one of the key red cell indices derived from the complete blood count (CBC) and is fundamental to classifying and diagnosing the cause of anemia. [Image of red blood cell size classification]
MCV is calculated by the formula: MCV (fL) = Hematocrit (%) / RBC Count (× 1012/L) × 10. MCV helps categorize anemia as microcytic (low MCV), normocytic (normal MCV), or macrocytic (high MCV). The standard unit of measure is the femtoliter (fL).
SI Units (Volume)
RecommendedFemtoliters and cubic micrometers are numerically 1:1.
Other Equivalents
Clinical Context
Reference Range (Adults): Typically 80 – 100 fL.
Classification of Anemia by MCV:
• Microcytic: MCV < 80 fL (Iron deficiency, Thalassemia)
• Macrocytic: MCV > 100 fL (B12/Folate deficiency, Liver disease)
The volume units are equivalent to powers of 1000:
1 fL = 1 µm3.
Clinical References
How to Use This Converter
Follow these steps to get accurate volume conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., fL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The converter calculates equivalents across different volume scales. Note the primary units are numerically identical.
Verify Units
Check the Femtoliters (fL) field, as this is the primary unit for reporting MCV.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. The femtoliter (fL) is exactly equivalent to one cubic micrometer (µm3).
The MCV determines the size of the RBCs and is the first step in diagnosing anemia. For example, high MCV (macrocytic) suggests a maturation defect (like B12/folate deficiency).