MCV Test in Chennai
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How to Book A MCV Test in Chennai?
What is the MCV test used for?
The MCV test is majorly performed to measure the size of the red blood cells in the body. This test is primarily conducted as a part of the complete blood count, also termed as CBC, in which the healthcare professional determines the count of red blood cells, white blood, and platelets in your body necessary to carry oxygen from one organ to another in the body. The MCV test is a routine screening test that measures several different components of the blood, including the red blood cells. In case you’re suffering from any blood disorder or expecting related symptoms, your doctor will advise you to undergo the MCV test.
What is included in the MCV test?
The MCV test includes the checking of the size of your red blood cells that are essentially important for your body as they are responsible for carrying oxygen from the lung to several other organs, which helps them grow and keeps you physically healthy. Along with the red blood cell count, the MCV test is also conducted for the measurement of haemoglobin.
Procedure for MCV test
During the MCV test, the healthcare professional will follow the below-mentioned procedure-
- The professional expert will tie an elastic on your left hand to stop the continuous blood
- They will use a disinfectant to clear the patch on your hand
- A needle will be inserted to take out blood
- Later, the blood will be transferred to the test tube or veil
- They will give you a cotton ball to clean the area.
Once the blood is collected, they will carry it to the accredited laboratory, where the test will be conducted.
How to prepare for the MCV test?
While going for the MCV test, specific preparations need to be done. However, your healthcare advisor may suggest you undergo several other blood or urine tests. In case they do, you may need to fast for 8-10 hours. You can drink water during this period. If you take medications, inform your doctor beforehand, as they might interfere with your test results. Apart from these, if there are any specific suggestions, your healthcare advisor will suggest them to you before time.
Things to consider after the MCV Test test is complete
Once the test is done and you feel well, you may leave the place. The side effects from the test are very uncommon but may include;
- Infection: Each time the skin punctures, there is a little risk of infection.
- Bleeding: Those who are on medications like blood thinners and the ones having bleeding-related issues will have to hold pressure on the site for some period to stop the bleeding.
- Hematoma: This condition is a bruise that may occur at the site of a blood draw. Hematoma is common in people taking blood-thinning medications and those who have bleeding disorders.
If you suffer from any such diseases or experience related symptoms, it is best recommended to contact your healthcare advisor.
*What types of infection can the MCV test detect?
An MCV test is usually recommended by your healthcare professional to measure the size of the red blood cells in your body. The red blood cells are responsible for carrying oxygen from one organ to another in the body. In case the red blood cell size is too small or too big, it might direct towards blood disorders such as Platelet disorders, bleeding problems, excessive clotting, Anemia, leukemia, myeloma, and Eosinophilic disorders.
How much does an MCV test cost?*
MCV test costs between INR 1275-2500, depending upon the lab partner and the city where you stay.
*Disclaimer: The value varies based on location, time, and your preferred lab partner.
How long does it take to get the results for the MCV test?
You can expect to get the results for the MCV test within 24 to 48 hours after the sample is collected. However, in certain cases, depending on the location, medical advice, and preferred lab partner, it may take longer.
What do abnormal MCV test results indicate?
In case your MCV test results come out to be abnormal, they may indicate the following blood disorders.
When the size of the red blood cells is smaller than normal. It might lead to the following conditions.
- Anaemia – Anemia is a blood disorder in which your blood has a fewer amount of red blood cells than the normal range. The most common type of Anemia is iron-deficiency Anemia.
- Thalassemia is commonly found in people whose family members have suffered from it in the past; hence it is termed as a hereditary disease that passes onto generations. This condition can lead to severe Anemia.
When the size of the red blood cells is larger than normal. It might direct towards the below-mentioned conditions.
- vitamin B12 deficiency
- Liver diseases include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, Wilson disease, and hemochromatosis.
- Hypothyroidism
- Deficiency in the folic acid – type of the Vitamin B
By any chance, your MCV test report does not come out to be normal; it does not necessarily mean that you’re suffering from any blood disorder or liver disease. Whereas, this condition may also appear because of several food habits, activity levels, irregular menstrual cycle, medications, and so on.
Disclaimer: Please consult with your doctor to interpret the test reports.
Is MCV a definitive test?
Although MCV is not a definitive test, it is used as one of the diagnostic tests for analyzing the size of the red blood cells in the body and increase or the decrease in size, since red blood cells are an essential component of our body and are also termed as the building block, it is essential to keep them in check. Doctors might ask for some additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other health conditions. Therefore, the abnormal size of the red blood cells always indicates health disorders; it may not be enough to confirm the disease.
How to read the MCV report?
MCV 83- 101 fL
The low MCV is indicated as the microcytic,high MCV is indicated as macrocytic, whereas the normal range is termed as normocytic. Looking at reports, you can easily make out the results. However, a few laboratories opt for different types of measurement methods for MCV tests that may affect the final value a little. Discuss with your doctor to know about different terminologies in test results.
Why book an MCV test?
An MCV test is majorly conducted to monitor the average size of the red blood cells in the human body. In case your results show high or low MCV, they might direct towards several health conditions therefore, a thorough checkup is a must. In case you’re experiencing the below-mentioned symptoms, we recommend you to go under the MCV test after consulting your healthcare advisor. The symptoms are as follows-
- Bruising or unusual bleeding
- Cold feet and hands
- Pale skin
- Fatigue
In case you’re going through any such diseases or experiencing the similar symptoms, it is best recommended to book a MCV test
MCV test at home – how does it work?
The MCV test is just like any other blood test. A lab technician visits your home when you book your tests through the MFine app. The lab technician first cleans the arm and then inserts a syringe into a vein. The required amount of blood is then taken into a vial. The lab technician then removes the needle and places cotton wool or a bandage over the prick.
Are there any risks involved with MCV tests?
Although a MCV test is a simple blood test and does not involve any health risks in particular as all they do is take out some blood as a sample to check under the microscope. However, there are some minor side effects that you might witness after getting the MCV test done. These are as follows-
- Blood collecting under the skin
- Minor skin infections
- Bursting
- Lightheaded feeling
Apart from these, there are no side effects of the MCV test. In case you suffer any significant complications, it is advisable to visit your healthcare professional as soon as possible to minimize future health issues.
What can affect the results of the MCV test?
If you’re taking any medications before the test, it is recommended to be extra sure by informing your healthcare professional as it might directly affect the test results. Apart from this, in case the test requires fasting, you should consult your doctor for the same. Also, if there are any specific instructions from your doctor’s end, such as fasting, make sure you follow them religiously to achieve accurate results. Note, the results of the MCV test will help your healthcare professional plan the future treatment process; therefore, there’s no scope of gaps.
Why book an MCV?
- The MCV test is usually carried out as part of a complete blood cell count or CBC.
- It helps detect anemia according to the red blood cell indices.
- Higher levels indicate Vitamin B12 and Vitamin B deficiency.
- Lower levels indicate Iron-deficiency anemia or thalassemia.
- Therefore, having the MCV test done twice a year ensures you are not suffering from any possible blood-related ailments.
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What does the MCV test measure?
- MCV test measures the average size of the red blood cells or erythrocytes in your blood sample. It is a part of the regular CBC screening.
- Any deformity in the size of the RBCs indicates underlying blood disorders such as anemia, thalassemia and liver diseases.
What Preparation is Needed for the MCV Test?
What Happens to Your Test Sample?
What do Abnormal Results Indicate?
- MCV test determines the average size of RBCs in your blood sample.
- The normal range of MCV in adults is 80 to 100 femtoliters, varying from one laboratory to another.
- High levels of MCV are detected if you have macrocytic anemia. It means that the RBCs in your blood sample are bigger in size. Macrocytic anemia is caused due to reasons such as vitamin deficiency, liver disorders and complications related to the thyroid gland.
- Low levels of MCV, known as microcytic anemia, indicate an iron deficiency in your body.
- Disclaimer: It has been advised to always consult with your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
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Frequently Asked Questions | FAQs
Can I avail at-home sample collection in Chennai?
Yes, you can avail of sample collection from your doorstep in Chennai. You can book a slot in your city through the MFine app and select an at-home sample collection service. A lab technician will reach your destination at the scheduled time slot. Your samples will be collected by them. You will receive a digital test report on your email ID within the next 48 hours.
What is the cost of the MCV test in Chennai?
In Chennai, the approximate price for the MCV test lies between 400 and 570 rupees. However, the price range may vary depending on the laboratories you choose.
I stay in Bhopal. Can I book an MCV for my grandmother staying in Chennai?
Through the MFine app, you can book an MCV test for your family members and relatives, irrespective of your location. The application helps you to book an at-home collection of samples. You can also view the test reports at the MFine app.
How can I reschedule my appointment for the MCV test sample?
Is the lab technician coming for MCV test sample collection vaccinated?
Yes. Our lab technicians are fully vaccinated. Further, they also ensure safety throughout by wearing a mask and using sanitizer and gloves during sample collection.
When is the MCV test recommended?
Your healthcare provider will order the MCV test if you experience any of the symptoms like:
- Fatigue
- Pale skin
- Dizziness
- Cold hand and feet
- Shortness of breath
Is a prescription required to book the MCV test?
The MCV test is a part of the CBC screening. Therefore, as a prerequisite for the test, you should consult a physician to know whether you need to opt for the test.
8. Does MFine provide result interpretation along with the reports?
Yes. MFine provides result interpretation along with the reports. Also, you will be able to avail a free doctor consultation after the lab test to understand your reports accurately. Our doctors will also advise and prescribe medicines if required based on the results.
Is MCV a definitive test?
No, the MCV test is not definitive. You may or may not require follow-up, depending on the reason your doctor recommended the test. If you otherwise have no sign of illness, then an abnormal range of MCV in the blood will not be a cause for concern. Your doctor will do the needful after studying the test results thoroughly
What other tests are usually recommended along with the MCV test?
A routine CBC screening is required to analyze the MCV levels in your blood sample. Additionally, your physician may ask you for tests such as the total RBC count and Hemoglobin measurement.
What diseases can be detected through the MCV test?
- The normal range varies from 80-100 femtoliter for an MCV test.
- A lower MCV means that your red blood cells are smaller than average (microcytic).
- On the other hand, a higher MCV means that your red blood cells are bigger than average (macrocytic).
- An MCV test helps diagnose many diseases, including anemia, thalassemia, liver disease, and iron deficiency.
How can I download my MCV report?
- Login to MFine
- Go to your profile
- Click Attachment and Reports
- Click Lab Report and download the same.
Are there any discount offers running on MCV tests in Chennai?
Usually, you can avail yourself up to a 50% discount on MCV tests through MFine. However, the discount and test price may vary based on lab partner and location.